Regulating Inter Compartment Energy Transfer in Hierarchical Dynamic Amphiphilic Block-Copolymer Based Composites*

Nature uses multi compartmentalization in cellular systems to facilitate many metabolic processes critical to life. Compartmentalization enables gradient formation, distance-dependent and diffusion-dependent function, and is critical to many important metabolic processes. In this study, we seek to mimic such organization and regulation using stimulus responsive amphiphilic block copolymer based hierarchical assemblies. Hierarchical assemblies are constructed of self assembled poly(1,4-butadiene)-b-poly(acrylic acid) based nanoscale micelles containing energy donors and acceptors, respectively, organized in microscale, alginate-based composites. In this study, I will present data demonstrating our ability to regulate energy transfer between donor and acceptor containing micelles through control of photonic cofactors, density of nanocomposites, and environmental conditions. These structures are designed to mimic complex biological functions for advanced technological and medical purposes.