R&D: Dual Sequence Definition Increases Storage Capacity of Sequence-Defined Macromolecules

Communications Chemistry has published an article written by Katharina S. Wetzel, Maximiliane Frölich, Susanne C. Solleder, Roman Nickisch, Philipp Treu, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry (IOC), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Straße am Forum 7, 76131, Karlsruhe, Germany, and Michael A. R. Meier, Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Institute of Organic Chemistry (IOC), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Straße am Forum 7, 76131, Karlsruhe, Germany, and Laboratory of Applied Chemistry, Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems—Functional Molecular Systems (IBCS-FMS), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Hermann-von-Helmholtz-Platz 1, 76344, Eggenstein-Leopoldshafen, Germany.

Abstract: “Sequence-defined macromolecules offer applications in the field of data storage. Challenges include synthesising precise and pure sequences, reading stored information and increasing data storage capacity. Herein, the synthesis of dual sequence-defined oligomers and their application for data storage is demonstrated. While applying the well-established Passerini three-component reaction, the degree of definition of the prepared monodisperse macromolecules is improved compared to previous reports by utilising nine specifically designed isocyanide monomers to introduce backbone definition. The monomers are combined with various aldehyde components to synthesise dual-sequence defined oligomers. Thus, the side chains and the backbones of these macromolecules can be varied independently, exhibiting increased molecular diversity and hence data storage capacity per repeat unit. In case of a dual sequence-defined pentamer, 33 bits are achieved in a single molecule. The oligomers are obtained in multigram scale and excellent purity. Sequential read-out by tandem ESI-MS/MS verifies the high data storage capacity of the prepared oligomers per repeat unit in comparison to other sequence defined macromolecules.“