Synthesis, Aggregation, and Biological Properties of a New Class of Gemini Cationic Amphiphilic Compounds from Arginine, bis(Args)

Abstract

In this work the synthesis and evaluation of a novel class of gemini biocompatible surfactants from arginine with chemical, biological, and fundamental research applications are presented for the first time. In this strategy the environmental acceptability of the already biocompatible single chain Nα-acyl arginine surfactants was reinforced by chemical dimerization in order to obtain a gemini surfactant with a high physicochemical efficiency and a low toxicity. The application of these molecules (with a very low intrinsic toxicity) in industrial processess could lead to a dramatic reduction in the concentration of surface active material for the same level of performance.