title: "Isothermal" LCST transitions triggered by bioreduction of single polymer end-groups.
abstract: The α-termini of RAFT-derived thermoresponsive polymers were functionalised via thiol exchange with pyridyl disulfide. Addition of hydrophilic end-groups dramatically increased the observed cloud point of the polymers, without changing the composition of the main chain. Selective cleavage of the disulfide-linked end-groups was observed under conditions intended to mimic intracellular glutathione concentration. This allowed the thermoresponsive behaviour to be 'switched on' without the need for a temperature stimulus - an 'isothermal' switch.
authors: Department of Chemistry, University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, UK CV4 7AL.
authors: Matthew J
authors: MJ
authors: Summers
authors: Daniel J
authors: DJ
authors: Phillips
authors: Matthew I
authors: MI
authors: Gibson