Our research establishes a new direction in a unique area of chemistry involving novel macromolecular media for chemical analysis. Spectroscopic probe techniques using both intrinsic and extrinsic chromophores coupled with intelligent experimental design are used to explore the unique molecular architecture, dynamic binding interactions and distributions, and molecular recognition mechanisms of dendrimers and peptides.
Spectroscopic techniques provide realistic views of macromolecular media in fluid solution.
We are using frequency domain fluorescence lifetime measurements to obtain dynamic information on a nanosecond time scale. The sheer number of potential analytical applications for these new materials, such as additives for viscosity control, rhelogy modifiers, and adhesives and coatings, attests to the uncommon chemical and physical properties of dendrimers. Unfortunately, the drive to discover new applications for dendrimers has overlooked basic, fundamental characterization that is critical to the ideal utilization and exploitation of these unique and exciting polymers. Our research strives to answer some difficult scientific questions. Unfortunately, peptides with well-defined biological activity are generally linear and small with large conformational flexibility.