Plastic Antibodies: Molecular Recognition with Imprinted Polymers. An Introductory Polymer Chemistry Laboratory Investigation

Abstract

Molecularly-imprinted polymers have recently attracted considerable attention as alternatives to conventional biological and synthetic molecular receptors owing to their facile preparation, versatility, and stability. Presented is an investigation of the binding properties of an ethyl adenine-9-acetate imprinted polymer prepared via free-radical initiation. Binding isotherms of polymers prepared in the presence and absence of a template molecule are compared and shown to differ in their affinity for the template. The preparation, processing, and analysis of the polymers can be completed within two three-hour laboratory periods with equipment common to typical organic chemistry departments. This investigation is well suited for an introductory polymer chemistry course at the upper-level undergraduate or graduate levels. The laboratory covers fundamental concepts such as separation science, sensing, and catalysis.