Self-assembling nanowires from a linear L,D-peptide conjugated to the dextran end group

Preparation and characterization of a block-like L,D-octapeptide-dextran conjugate DEX29-(L-Val-D-Val)(4) self assembling into nanowire structures is reported. The conjugate was prepared by solid phase click-chemistry on an alkyne group N-terminus functionalized peptide with a regularly alternating enantiomeric sequence. Low molecular weight dextran (X-n = 29) with moderately low dispersity (1.30) was prepared by controlled acid hydrolysis and dialysis with selected cut-off and functionalized with an azido group on the reducing end by reductive amination. The strong hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions of the (L-Val-D-Val)(4) linear peptide drive the conjugate to self-assemble into long (0.1-1 mu m) nanowires. To our knowledge, this is the first example of a peptide-polysaccharide conjugate that can self-assemble into a nanowire architecture.

Automated summary

This study reports the preparation and characterization of a novel peptide-polysaccharide conjugate that can self-assemble into nanowire structures. The conjugate was synthesized through solid phase click-chemistry and possessed a block-like architecture. The self-assembly of the conjugate was driven by strong hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions.