Low Molecular Weight Polyethylene Glycol Research Articles

Aggregation-Induced Emission (AIE) in Polymers: Effect of Polymer size on the Fluorescence of Low Molecular Weight PEG and PPG.

Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) is a fascinating phenomenon where specific molecules exhibit enhanced fluorescence upon aggregation. This unique property has revolutionized the design and development of new fluorescent materials for different applications, from biosensors and organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) to biomedical imaging and diagnostics. Researchers are creating sensitive and selective sensing platforms, opening new avenues in material science and engineering by harnessing the potential of AIE. To expand the knowledge in this field, this study explored the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) properties of two polymers, namely polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polypropylene glycol (PPG) of low molecular weight (MW) using fluorescence spectroscopy and absorbance (UV). PEG-300 and PPG-725 were the most fluorescent polymers at UV of the ten investigated. Interestingly, AIE did not correlate linearly with molecular weight (MW), and monobutyl ether substitution in PEG with a similar MW substantially altered its AIE. Furthermore, fluorescence precisely quantified low polymer concentrations in water, and non-aqueous solvents suppressed AIE, suggesting potential for AIE manipulation. These findings enhance our understanding of AIE in polymers, fostering the development of novel materials for applications such as biosensors.

A thermostable ionic liquid-methacrylate-based polymer electrolyte for energy storage application

In recent years, gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) incorporating ionic liquids (ILs) have been explored extensively for lithium-ion batteries due to their favourable thermal stability and high ionic conductivity. Gel polymer electrolytes can also improve the safety of lithium-ion batteries by eliminating the flammable organic solvents which are often used in traditional electrolyte systems. Herein, we report an efficient synthesis of a thermostable ionic liquid-methacrylate-based polymer gel electrolyte via a photo-initiated phase separation (PIPS) process in an inert environment. Anionic liquid phase of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (EMIMTFSI), coupled with a low molecular weight polyethylene glycol dimethyl ether (PEGDME), was combined with a solid phase of bisphenol A ethoxylate dimethacrylate (BEMA) at varying solid to liquid ratios to produce a thermally stable gel electrolyte. The highest ionic conductivity of 1.9 × 10−3 S cm−1 (at 30 °C) was achieved for the electrolyte with a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:3 by weight. The Lithium metal cells utilizing these electrolytes and LiFePO4 as cathode active material exhibited the initial discharge capacity of 144 mAh g−1 with capacity retention of 85 % over 100 cycles in ambient temperature. The thermal stability of the cells was significantly improved upon increasing the EMIMTFSI content. This study illustrates the potential application of the IL-methacrylate gel polymer electrolyte system in enhancing the safety of Li-ion batteries through careful tuning of the composition. Their versatile properties also make them suitable for quasi-solid-state batteries with high energy density and safety.

Polyethylene Glycol Impacts Conformation and Dynamics of Escherichia coli Prolyl-tRNA Synthetase Via Crowding and Confinement Effects.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a flexible, nontoxic polymer commonly used in biological and medical research, and it is generally regarded as biologically inert. PEG molecules of variable sizes are also used as crowding agents to mimic intracellular environments. A recent study with PEG crowders revealed decreased catalytic activity of Escherichia coli prolyl-tRNA synthetase (Ec ProRS), where the smaller molecular weight PEGs had the maximum impact. The molecular mechanism of the crowding effects of PEGs is not clearly understood. PEG may impact protein conformation and dynamics, thus its function. In the present study, the effects of PEG molecules of various molecular weights and concentrations on the conformation and dynamics of Ec ProRS were investigated using a combined experimental and computational approach including intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and atomistic molecular dynamic simulations. Results of the present study suggest that lower molecular weight PEGs in the dilute regime have modest effects on the conformational dynamics of Ec ProRS but impact the catalytic function primarily via the excluded volume effect; they form large clusters blocking the active site pocket. In contrast, the larger molecular weight PEGs in dilute to semidilute regimes have a significant impact on the protein's conformational dynamics; they wrap on the protein surface through noncovalent interactions. Thus, lower-molecular-weight PEG molecules impact protein dynamics and function via crowding effects, whereas larger PEGs induce confinement effects. These results have implications for the development of inhibitors for protein targets in a crowded cellular environment.

A high performance, stable anion exchange membrane for alkaline redox flow batteries

The development of cost-effective, safe, and low-corrosion alkaline aqueous redox flow batteries, such as alkaline zinc-iron flow batteries, has motivated the research of hydrocarbon-based anion exchange membranes. These membranes, characterized by their positively charged functional groups, facilitate the transport of hydroxide anions (OH−) in alkaline environments, rendering them as potential alternatives to conventional proton exchange membranes in emerging alkaline redox flow batteries. Herein, a facilely synthesized anion exchange membrane (AEM) with superior chemical stability in alkaline media and outstanding ion conductivity has been developed for use in an alkaline redox flow battery. The membrane consists of a partially imidazolium substituted poly (vinylbenzyl chloride) polymer matrix and low molecular weight polyethylene glycol (PEG) additive. The membrane provides positively charged polymer backbone with hydroxide anion as counter ions. The additive PEG not only augments membrane flexibility through interaction with the rigid polymer backbone, but also enhances the conductivity through conducting ions by the alkalized-ether functionality. The optimized anion exchange membrane demonstrates better ionic conductivity of 58.2 mS cm−1 and comparable permeability compared with commercially Nafion117 membrane, enabling promoted energy efficiency (83.5 %), coulombic efficiency (99.85 %) and excellent stability (280 cycles with negligible capacity degradation) of a zinc-iron flow battery at 80 mA cm−2.

Non-destructive covalent surface alkylation of graphitic carbon nitride for enhanced photocatalytic dye degradation in water

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-CN) is a promising material for various applications due to its unique electronic, optical, and photocatalytic properties, tunable by surface modifications. Herein, a novel and straightforward approach to the covalent addition of low molecular weight polyethylene glycol (PEG550) to g-CNs surface following non-destructive chemistry benefiting from simultaneous activation of hydroxyl and free-amine surface groups by a weak base, potassium carbonate, is for the first time described. The resulting g-CN-PEG550 exhibits almost two-fold enhanced water solubility due to 1 PEG550 chain addition for every ∼ 128 g-CN atoms, detected by thermogravimetric analysis. Complementary X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy elemental analysis of the isolated g-CN-PEG550 displays an increased C─O chemical environment attributed to the covalent addition of carbon- and oxygen-rich PEG550 to the g-CN surface. The g-CN-PEG550 photocatalyst performs 2.5-fold better in degrading rhodamine B due to its enhanced light absorption, improved water-dispersibility, and the efficient separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs compared to the as-prepared g-CN. The study underscores the potential use of covalently PEGylated oxygen-rich g-CNs in photocatalytic applications.

Water-soluble and Water-dispersible Polymers Used in Commercial Agricultural Formulations: Inventory of Polymers and Perspective on their Environmental Fate.

Agricultural formulations contain water-soluble and water-dispersible polymers (WSPs and WDPs) to increase the application efficiency of the active ingredients (e.g. pesticides and fertilizers). Despite their direct release to soils and crops, there is currently no inventory of used polymers and their fate in soils is poorly studied and understood. Herein, we identify WSPs and WDPs used in agricultural formulations on the German and Swiss markets. By searching the scientific literature, patents, and manufacturer websites, we tentatively identified that 233 of the 1815 listed trade names of formulation additives contained polymers, the majority of which belonged to three main chemical classes: polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based (co)polymers, functionalized polysaccharides (PSacs), and vinylic (co)polymers (VCPs). We report information on their functionalization, molecular weights, and market significance. In 2015, their estimated combined annual application volume in Switzerland surpassed 100 tonnes. Low molecular weight PEGs and natural, unfunctionalized PSacs reportedly biodegrade, suggesting no accumulation in soils associated with their use as formulation additives. Conversely, high molecular weight functionalized PEGs, functionalized PSacs, and the majority of the VCPs have been reported to undergo only slow or no soil biodegradation. These polymers may thus persist and accumulate in agricultural soils, requiring more detailed investigations of their environmental fate and resulting exposure scenarios. There is a need for systematic studies on the effects of polymer structure, molecular weight, and functionalization on soil biodegradability.

Unraveling the cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of low, medium and high molecular weight polyethylene glycol polymers in MCF-7 cells by green UPLC-MS/MS methods

Unraveling the cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of low, medium and high molecular weight polyethylene glycol (PEG) in cells is important for evaluation of therapeutic efficacy and toxicity of PEGylated drug delivery systems. In this study, cellular uptake of PEG600, PEG2K, PEG4K and PEG10K in MCF-7 cells was first studied by an UPLC-MS/MS assay coupled with collision induced dissociation (CID) in source technique. The CID of PEG in source with high values of declustering potentials generates numerous PEG-related product ions. These PEG-related fragment ions can be further broken into specific product ions in the collision cell as alternative ions for detection of PEG. The quantification of PEG was finally performed with the MRM transition (m/z 221.0 → 89.0). The experimental results indicated that the toxicity of PEG600, PEG2K, PEG4K and PEG10K was not significant at concentrations of 5–1200 μg/mL and the amounts of PEG polymers entry into MCF-7 cells at was small. The greenness of the developed analytical methods was also assessed by Analytical Eco-Scale, Analytical Greenness calculator (AGREE) and Green Analytical Procedure Index (GAPI) in this study.

Cellulose Acetate/Polyethylene Glycol Composite Beads for Efficient Removal of Methylene Blue

The development of eco-friendly and biodegradable adsorbent with excellent adsorption performance is of great importance for the efficient dye removal in wastewater. Herein, an efficient and biodegradable composite adsorbent bead was fabricated from cellulose acetate (CA) modified with low molecular weight polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG200) for the adsorptive removal of methylene blue dye (MB) from aqueous solution. The weight fraction of PEG was varied to investigate the effect of material bead composition on the morphology, molecular structure, crystal phases, thermal stability, mechanical properties, and adsorption performance of the composite beads. Batch adsorption was carried out at various times to estimate the time at equilibrium adsorption capacity and kinetic model. Various operating conditions such as pH, initial MB concentration, and adsorbent dosage in experiment were also executed to examine the adsorption performance of this system. The result showed that all beads have porous structure and the pore size increase after the addition of PEG200. The adsorption capacity and % MB removal generally showed an improvement with the rise of PEG content. The batch adsorption experiments demonstrated that the best % removal and adsorption capacity of MB were 93.35 % and 28.005 mg/g, respectively, that was obtained by composite CA/PEG200 (80/20) bead at pH of 11, initial MB concentration of 30 mg/L, and bead dosage of 1 g/L. The adsorption kinetic fitted well to Elovich-kinetic model with average R2 of 0.844. Overall, this work offers new finding into the development of effective, environmentally friendly, and inexpensive cellulose-based adsorbents for wastewater remediation.

Improved bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp-based tissue papers incorporating wet-strength resins

Abstract Common tissue paper manufacturing trends aim at partial or total replacement of softwood pulp with hardwood pulp for its production, such as bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp (BEKP), in order to optimize the process and the final product properties such as softness. However, the use of a single type of hardwood fiber results in lower strengths of both wet and dry webs. To maintain necessary strength and desired properties, the incorporation of several additives is often required. In this context, low molecular weight polyethylene glycol (PEG) and different wet strength resins, such as polyamideamine-epichlorohydrin (PAE) and glyoxalated polyacrylamide (GPAM) resins, were combined to achieve an innovated product with improved properties. In particular, wet and dry tensile strength was significantly improved when combining PEG and wet strength resins, especially observed in tissue papers prepared with PAE resin, high-charge cationic agent and bulk applied aqueous PEG solution. Noteworthy that water absorption capacity and softness of tissue paper were not critically affected by PEG incorporation, regardless of application method used (in bulk or by spray).

Optical Polymorphism of Liquid-Crystalline Dispersions of DNA at High Concentrations of Crowding Polymer.

Optically active liquid-crystalline dispersions (LCD) of nucleic acids, obtained by polymer- and salt-induced (psi-) condensation, e.g., by mixing of aqueous saline solutions of low molecular weight DNA (≤106 Da) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), possess an outstanding circular dichroism (CD) signal (so-called psi-CD) and are of interest for sensor applications. Typically, such CD signals are observed in PEG content from ≈12.5% to ≈22%. However, in the literature, there are very conflicting data on the existence of psi-CD in DNA LCDs at a higher content of crowding polymer up to 30-40%. In the present work, we demonstrate that, in the range of PEG content in the system above ≈24%, optically polymorphic LCDs can be formed, characterized by both negative and positive psi-CD signals, as well as by ones rather slightly differing from the spectrum of isotropic DNA solution. Such a change in the CD signal is determined by the concentration of the stock solution of PEG used for the preparation of LCDs. We assume that various saturation of polymer chains with water molecules may affect the amount of active water, which in turn leads to a change in the hydration of DNA molecules and their transition from B-form to Z-form.

Assembly and recognition mechanisms of glycosylated PEGylated polyallylamine phosphate nanoparticles: A fluorescence correlation spectroscopy and small angle X-ray scattering study

HypothesisModification of polyallylamine hydrochloride (PAH) with heterobifunctional low molecular weight polyethylene glycol (PEG) (600 and 1395 Da), and subsequent attachment of mannose, glucose, or lactose sugars to PEG, can lead to formation of polyamine phosphate nanoparticles (PANs) with lectin binding affinity and narrow size distribution. ExperimentsSize, polydispersity, and internal structure of glycosylated PEGylated PANs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) was used to study the association of labelled glycol-PEGylated PANs. The number of polymer chains forming the nanoparticles was determined from the changes in amplitude of the cross-correlation function of the polymers after formation of the nanoparticles. SAXS and fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy were used to investigate the interaction of PANs with lectins: concanavalin A with mannose modified PANs, and jacalin with lactose modified ones. FindingsGlyco-PEGylated PANs are highly monodispersed, with diameters of a few tens of nanometers and low charge, and a structure corresponding to spheres with Gaussian chains. FCS shows that the PANs are single chain nanoparticles or formed by two polymer chains. Concanavalin A and jacalin show specific interactions for the glyco-PEGylated PANs with higher affinity than bovine serum albumin.

Effect of Molecular Weight on the Dissolution Profiles of PEG Solid Dispersions Containing Ketoprofen

Solid dispersions are typically binary systems with a hydrophilic matrix polymer and a lipophilic active substance. During formulation, the drug undergoes a crystalline to amorphous phase transition, which leads to a supersaturated solution providing enhanced bioavailability. The interaction of the active substance and the polymer is unique and influences the level of supersaturation. We aimed to investigate the relationship between low molecular weight polyethylene glycol derivates PEG 1000, 1500, and 2000 and ketoprofen regarding the effect of molecular weight. The physicochemical properties of solid dispersions prepared with hot melt homogenization and their respective physical mixtures were investigated with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy techniques. A phase solubility study was carried out in hydrochloric acid media which showed no difference between the three polymers, but the dissolution curves differed considerably. PEG 1000 had higher percentage of released drug than PEG 1500 and 2000, which had similar results. These results indicate that when multiple low molecular weight PEGs are suitable as matrix polymers of solid dispersions, the molecular weight has only limited impact on physicochemical characteristics and interactions and further investigation is needed to select the most applicable candidate.

Low and High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Glycol as A Treating and Coupling Agent in High Density Polyethylene/Date Palm Tree Fiber Composites

nical properties and water absorption (WA) behavior of high density polyethylene/date palm tree fiber (HDPE/DPTF) composites were investigated. Two different parts of the date palm tree (mesh and leaflets) were used. The focus was on studding the combination effect of using both low and/or high molecular weight polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a treatment and coupling agent, respectively on shore D hardness, impact strength and water absorption behavior of the composites. Morphological properties of the prepared composites were also investigated. Results showed that treating the fibers with low molecular weight PEG had a significant effect, which resulted in composites with better shore D hardness and impact strength compared to pure HDPE and composites made with untreated fibers. Furthermore, the use of high molecular weight PEG as a coupling agent resulted in better impact strength and shore D hardness, indicating the presence of a strong interaction between the fibers and the HDPE matrix. Morphological observations of composites made with untreated fibers by scanning electron microscope (SEM) revealed the formation of some fiber aggregation, fiber debonding and fiber pullout in composites made with untreated fibers. Contrary, the composites made with PEG as a treatment and/or coupling agent showed no fiber aggregation or fiber debonding.

MRNA-1273 but not BNT162b2 induces antibodies against polyethylene glycol (PEG) contained in mRNA-based vaccine formulations

Two messenger RNA (mRNA)-based vaccines are widely used globally to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Both vaccine formulations contain PEGylated lipids in their composition, in the form of polyethylene glycol [PEG] 2000 dimyristoyl glycerol for mRNA-1273, and 2 [(polyethylene glycol)-2000]-N,N-ditetradecylacetamide for BNT162b2. It is known that some PEGylated drugs and products for human use which contain PEG are capable of eliciting immune responses that lead to to detectable PEG-specific antibodies in serum. In this study, we determined if any of the components of mRNA-1273 or BNT162b2 formulations elicited PEG-specific antibody responses in serum by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We detected an increase in the reactivity to mRNA vaccine formulations in mRNA-1273 but not BNT162b2 vaccinees’ sera in a prime-boost dependent manner. Furthermore, we observed the same pattern of reactivity against irrelevant lipid nanoparticles from an influenza virus mRNA formulation and found that the reactivity of such antibodies correlated well with antibody levels against high and low molecular weight PEG. Using sera from participants selected based on the vaccine-associated side effects experienced after vaccination, including delayed onset, injection site or severe allergic reactions, we found no obvious association between PEG antibodies and adverse reactions. Overall, our data shows a differential induction of anti-PEG antibodies by mRNA-1273 and BNT162b2. The clinical relevance of PEG reactive antibodies induced by administration of the mRNA-1273 vaccine, and the potential interaction of these antibodies with other PEGylated drugs remains to be explored.

Tolerance of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in patients with reported taxane reactions

Tolerance of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in patients with reported taxane reactions

One-pot synthesis of zinc ion coordinated hydroxy-terminated polyurethanes based on low molecular weight polyethylene glycol and toluene diisocyanate

One-pot synthesis of zinc ion coordinated hydroxy-terminated polyurethanes based on low molecular weight polyethylene glycol and toluene diisocyanate

Superior CO2/N2 separation performance of highly branched Poly(1,3 dioxolane) plasticized by polyethylene glycol

With its high content of CO 2 -philic ether oxygen groups, poly(1,3-dioxolane) (PDXLA) has emerged as an attractive platform to achieve excellent CO 2 /N 2 separation properties for post-combustion carbon capture. Herein we demonstrate that the separation properties of PDXLA can be further enhanced by plasticizing with miscible polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based additives using an integrated experimentation and modeling approach. The effects of the chain end groups and loading level of the additives on the physical properties of the blends are thoroughly investigated, including glass transition temperature ( T g ), fractional free volume, and gas transport properties, and the effects can be satisfactorily described using models available for homogeneous blends. Notably, a T g -integrated free volume model is adapted to successfully interpret the unified effect of the blend composition and temperature on gas diffusivity and permeability. A sample containing 45 mass% PEG dimethyl ether (PEGDME with a molecular mass of 240 g/mol) displays stable mixed-gas CO 2 permeability of 1540 Barrer and CO 2 /N 2 selectivity of 40 when challenged with a model flue gas at 60 °C, outperforming Robeson's 2008 upper bound. Elucidating how small plasticizers impact gas transport in homogeneous blends may unravel a facile way to design high-performance membranes for gas separations. Enhancing CO 2 /N 2 separation performance of poly(1,3 dioxolane) by plasticizing with polyethylene glycol derivatives. • Homogeneous blends were prepared from poly(1,3 dioxolane) and polyethylene glycol. • Plasticization decreases T g and increases free volume and gas permeability. • Lower molecular weight PEG without OH groups show more plasticization impact. • Effect of temperature and composition on gas permeability is described using the free volume model. • Blends exhibit stable mixed-gas CO 2 /N 2 separation performance above the upper bound.

Using Prime Editing and Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes to Treat Cystic Fibrosis: A Research Protocol

Introduction: Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a progressive genetic disease that causes the production of thick mucus in the lungs. A mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene leads to a malfunction of the CFTR protein. Current therapies for cystic fibrosis treat the symptoms rather but not the disease source. This study proposes using prime editing in combination with mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSCEs) as an alternative treatment for CF. This treatment could potentially (1) correct the CFTR mutation in lung epithelial cells, and (2) regenerate tissue function after damage caused by cystic fibrosis in the lungs. Methods: The MSCEs are obtained from adipose tissue through differential centrifugation and ultracentrifugation. They will then be surface engineered with a low molecular weight polyethylene glycol to help better penetrate the mucus layer and after incubated with the prime editor and liposomes to create the hybrid liposome MSCEs and encapsulate the prime editor. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments with mice models and human lung organoids will be used to test the MSCEs and prime editor. After administration, efficiency of the treatment will be measured through the recombinant protein, FVII (rFVII) and microscopy. Results: The MSCEs will be delivered through nebulization to reach the lung epithelial cells to correct the mutation, leading to the proper expression of the protein in the lungs. The MSCEs will further regenerate damage already caused by the disease. Discussion: If the treatment is effective, we expect to see the production of thinner mucus in the lungs and an increased ability to breathe over time due to the MSCEs. Conclusion: Currently, there is no cure for CF and the lifespan of CF patients is around 44 years. MSCEs and prime editing could be a safe and viable option for treating CF.

Enhancing the in vivo stability of polycation gene carriers by using PEGylated hyaluronic acid as a shielding system

Abstract To increase the in vivo stability of cationic gene carriers and avoid the adverse effects of their positive charge, we synthesized a new shielding material by conjugating low molecular weight polyethylene glycol (PEG) to a hyaluronic acid (HA) core. The HA-PEG conjugate assembled with the positively charged complex, forming a protective layer through electrostatic interactions. DNA/polyetherimide/HA-PEG (DNA/PEI/HA-PEG) nanoparticles had higher stability than both DNA/polyethyleneimine (DNA/PEI) and DNA/PEI/HA complexes. Furthermore, DNA/PEI/HA-PEG nanoparticles also showed a diminished nonspecific response toward serum proteins in vivo. The in vivo transfection efficiency was also enhanced by the low cytotoxicity and the improved stability; therefore, this material might be promising for use in gene delivery applications.

Effect of Different Molecular Weight and Concentration of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) on Tensile and Morphology of Sago Starch Film

Sago starch is a seasonal based plantation and widely found in Asia country. Its application mainly in cooking such as biscuits and as a thickener in jellies. To further utilize its application, bioplastic from sago starch was developed. In this study, sago starch films were prepared through a blending and casting method using polyethylene glycol (PEG) as a plasticizer by varying its molecular weights and concentrations. The interaction between starch and PEG in the blend was studied using FTIR technique. The effect on transparency, tensile stress, Young’s modulus as well as elongation percentages of the films was also examined. The results suggested that the addition of low molecular weight PEG (400 g.mol-1) increased the tensile stress of sago films from 33.51 MPa up to 39.11 MPa. Nevertheless, incorporation of high molecular weight of PEG (4000 g.mol-1) decreased the tensile strength of the film. Tensile strength and elongation at break of sago films increased with increasing of PEG concentration up to 2% and decreased with further increased of PEG content. Results indicated that there was a miscibility between these two components.