Abstract: Methods, compounds, and compositions described herein generally relate to polyalkylamines and syntheses thereof. In some embodiments, a chemical compound has the formula: Each instance of R is independently selected from the group consisting of aryl, alkyl, and polyether. Each instance of R? is independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen, alkyl, aryl, cycloalkyl, polyether, and alcohol. Each instance of Q and Z is independently a covalent bond or selected from the group consisting of alkyl and aralkyl.

Abstract: A number of cationic antimicrobial polymers have been synthesized by a condensation polymerization in bulk. The initial polymer formed has backbone tertiary nitrogens, which are subsequently quaternized using a suitable quaternizing agent (e.g., alkyl halide). The cationic polymers include polyamides, polycarbonates, polypolyureas and polyguanidiniums having a cationic repeat unit comprising the quaternary ammonium nitrogen as a backbone nitrogen. The cationic polymers can be active against Gram-negative, Gram-positive microbes, and/or fungi.

Abstract: Cationic antimicrobial polymers have been synthesized by a bulk addition polymerization of a nucleophilic agent comprising two tertiary amines and an electrophilic agent that comprises two leaving groups and an aromatic ring between the leaving groups. The reaction solvent for the polymerization is chosen to allow precipitation of the cationic polymer at the polymerization temperature, thereby limiting molecular weight. Quaternization and polymerization occur concurrently. The cationic polymers can be highly active against Gram-negative and Gram-positive microbes, and/or fungi. The cationic polymers can also be non-hemolytic and non-cytotoxic at the effective concentration against the microbes.

Abstract: Antimicrobial cationic polycarbonates and polyurethanes have been prepared comprising one or more pendent guanidinium and/or isothiouronium groups. Additionally, antimicrobial particles were prepared having a silica core linked to surface groups comprising a guanidinium and/or isothiouronium group. The cationic polymers and cationic particles can be potent antimicrobial agents against Gram-negative microbes, Gram-positive microbes, and/or fungi.

Abstract: A number of cationic antimicrobial polymers have been synthesized by a condensation polymerization in bulk. The initial polymer formed has backbone tertiary nitrogens, which are subsequently quaternized using a suitable quaternizing agent (e.g., alkyl halide). The cationic polymers include polyamides, polycarbonates, polypolyureas and polyguanidiniums having a cationic repeat unit comprising the quaternary ammonium nitrogen as a backbone nitrogen. The cationic polymers can be active against Gram-negative, Gram-positive microbes, and/or fungi.

Abstract: Eight-membered ring cyclic carbonates having an oxygen or an acylated nitrogen at position 6 were prepared by reaction of precursor diols with ethyl chloroformate. The cyclic carbonates undergo organocatalyzed ring opening polymerization. In one instance, the initial polymer formed comprises a carbonate repeat unit having a Boc-protected nitrogen in the polymer backbone. Deprotecting the nitrogen with acid forms a cationic carbonate repeat unit having a positive charged secondary ammonium nitrogen in the polymer backbone.