Abstract: Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) glycodendrimers can serve as multivalent inhibitors of selectin-mediated leukocyte recruitment regulating inflammatory response. Disclosed are compounds and methods relating to functionalized branched glycopolymers. In embodiments, the compounds are capable of modifying cell adhesion events and inflammatory conditions. In a particular embodiment, a multi-arm PEO polymer with sulfated lactose end groups can specifically inhibit interactions involving L-selectin. Also disclosed are methods of synthetic preparation and use.

Abstract: Synthetic protein copolymers with plastic and elastic properties, and methods producing the copolymers, are provided. For example, a BAB triblock copolymer comprises a hydrophilic block and one or more hydrophobic blocks. The mechanical properties of a gel, fiber, fiber network, or film form of the copolymer are varied by one or more conditions before or after copolymer production. For example, a copolymer sequence can be varied before production, and one or more processing conditions such as solvent, pH, or temperature can be varied after production.