Solvophobically driven folding of nonbiological oligomers.

Nelson, J C; Saven, J G; Moore, J S; Wolynes, P G · Science · 1997

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

In solution, biopolymers commonly fold into well-defined three-dimensional structures, but only recently has analogous behavior been explored in synthetic chain molecules. An aromatic hydrocarbon backbone is described that spontaneously acquires a stable helical conformation having a large cavity. The chain does not form intramolecular hydrogen bonds, and solvophobic interactions drive the folding transition, which is sensitive to chain length, solvent quality, and temperature.

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