Synthesis and Properties of Hyperbranched Poly(L-lactide)s Having Glutamic Acid Terminals

Abstract

The introduction of zwitterionic groups improves hydrophilicity and antithrombogenicity of the target materials. In this study, chemical modification of hydroxy terminals of hyperbranched poly(Llactide)s (AB₂ PLLAs) by glutamic acid (Glu) was performed to introduce zwitterionic hydrophilic groups. The structures of AB₂ PLLAs and Glu-esterified AB₂ PLLAs (AB₂ PLLA-Glus) were confirmed by NMR measurements. The contact angles of AB₂ PLLA-Glus were lower than those of AB₂ PLLA due to the influence of large number of Glu terminals. Microphase-separated morphology was observed on the film of AB₂ PLLA-Glu, which is a promising surface for anti-platelet adhesion.