The presented interdisciplinary research project tackles challenging issues in the emerging field of sequence-controlled (macro)molecules and related single chain nanotechnology. The first hurdle is the efficient synthesis of sequence-defined motifs with sufficient length. Therefore, a novel solidsupported chemical protocol is described as it allows for the protecting group-free preparation of various multi-functionalized oligomers, based on a single building block. Next to variations in the chain length and the identity of pendent side groups, control over the stereochemistry and highthroughput
automation will be targeted.
In the next stage, the newly synthesized oligomeric species will be structurally modified, as several topological upgrades (sequence-controlled polymers, cyclic analogues and single chain functional systems) are envisaged. Following these dedicated synthetic efforts, evaluation of unprecedented
properties of the multi-functionalized sequence-defined oligomers and derivatives, in-depth
modeling and characterization of the dynamic systems, should provide relevant insights regarding their conformational flexibility and supramolecular behavior.
Finally, the linear sequence-controlled polymers can serve as scaffolds for immobilizing (bio) chemical substrates, resulting in polymeric materials with sharply defined structure/activity relationships.