Visible-light-mediated cleavage of polymer chains under physiological conditions via quinone photoreduction and trimethyl lock

Abstract

We introduce a click and visible-light triggered unclick approach via thio-bromo reaction and hydroquinone photoreduction/trimethyl lock cleavage for polymer modifications. Both reactions can be carried out in water and at ambient temperature, enabling preparation of bioorthogonal hydrogels for encapsulation and controlled release of various cells.