Reversible single-chain selective point folding via cyclodextrin driven host–guest chemistry in water

Abstract

In the present communication we introduce a new platform technology for the reversible folding of single polymer chains in aqueous environment on the basis of cyclodextrin (CD) host–guest chemistry and controlled radical polymerization protocols. The single-chain folding of adamantyl-β-CD α-ω-functionalized poly(N,N-dimethylacrylamide) and its reversion at elevated temperatures were monitored by DLS and nuclear Overhauser enhancement spectroscopy (NOESY).