Synthesis and characterisation of a degradable poly(lactic acid)-poly(ethylene glycol) copolymer with biotinylated end groups.

Poly(lactic acid)-poly(ethylene glycol)-biotin (PLA-PEG-biotin) is a degradable polymer with protein resistant properties that can undergo rapid surface engineering in aqueous media to create biomimetic surfaces. Surface engineering of this polymer is dependent on biomolecular interactions between the biotin end group and the protein avidin. Given the vigorous conditions of synthesis, it is essential that the manufacture of the polymer does not alter the biotin structure or its molecular recognition. Equally, it is important that the incorporation of biotin does not adversely affect the physicochemical properties of the polymer. (1)H NMR provides evidence of biotin attachment and structural integrity. (1)H NMR, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis shows there is no significant effect on bulk properties induced by the biotin end group. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and fluorescent spectroscopy studies using the 2-(4'-hydroxyazobenzene) benzoic acid (HABA)/avidin complex show that the biotin moieties binding capabilities are not impaired by the synthesis.