DNA condensation through functionalization of styrene-co-maleic anhydride copolymer (SMA) with Tallow amine

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.5157292617041

• Palavras-chave: Poly (estirene-co-maleic anhidride), SMA, ADN, Protein, Tallow Amine, gene delivery

• Keywords: Poly (estirene-co-maleic anhidride), SMA, ADN, Protein, Tallow Amine, gene delivery

• Abstract: The condensation of biomacromolecules, such as DNA and proteins, using synthetic polymers plays a key role in strategies for their stabilization, protection, and controlled organization in aqueous media. In this work, a poly (styrene-co-maleic anhydride) (SMA) copolymer modified with a commercial tallow amine is investigated as an amphiphilic platform for the non-covalent condensation of DNA and proteins. The introduction of protonable amino groups provides electrostatic affinity toward the negatively charged phosphate backbone of DNA, while the aromatic rings and aliphatic segments promote the supramolecular stability of the formed complexes. Infrared spectroscopy, optical microscopy, and dynamic light scattering (DLS) were used to characterize the system, allowing the observation of the generated particles and the measurement of the micelles formed by SMA. The copolymer was able to condense DNA, forming complexes with particle sizes larger than 500 nm. This work explores an alternative approach for obtaining nanodiscs through the synthesis of SMA modified with tallow amine as a versatile material for biomolecular condensation, opening new perspectives for its application in biotechnology and materials science