Abstract: Polymers are formed enzymatically in the presence of an oligomeric or polymeric template. The method includes combining at least one redox monomer or, in some cases, a redox oligomer, with a template and an enzyme, such as horseradish peroxidase, to form a reaction mixture. The redox monomer or oligomer aligns along the template before or during the polymerization, the template thereby affecting at least one physical property of the resulting polymer, such as the molecular weight or shape of the polymer. In one embodiment, the template can be a polyelectrolyte or an optically active polymer.

Abstract: Water-soluble polymers are formed by combining a water-soluble analog of a water-insoluble monomer, such as a water-insoluble redox monomer, with a water-based solvent and an enzyme. The water-soluble polymers formed can be electrically conductive or optically active. The water-soluble analog can be copolymerized with a water-insoluble redox monomer to form a copolymer that is also water-soluble. Polymers formed by the method of this invention can be layered on a surface to form, for example, alternating layers of polyanions and polycations.