CeNT Seminar (Fri, March 6, 2026): Programming synthetic polymers with biological precision through sequence control

02 03 2026

The Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw invites to a seminar by:

prof. Róża Szweda

Adam Mickiewicz University

Title: Programming synthetic polymers with biological precision through sequence control
Date: Fri Mar 6th, 2026
Time: 12:00 (Central European Time)
Host: prof. Jacek Jemielity
The seminar will be held in the 00.142 auditorium, Banacha 2c

Abstract:

Nature programs the function of biomacromolecules through sequence, arranging monomers with precision to create proteins and nucleic acids capable of folding, recognition, catalysis, and other sophisticated functions. Translating this molecular “language” into synthetic polymers opens largely unexplored opportunities to create materials that combine the programmability of biology with the robustness and versatility of man-made polymers.

In this lecture, I will present our recent advances in the design and synthesis of sequence- and stereochemically defined abiotic polymers that exhibit programmable, protein-mimicking behaviour beyond physiological constraints. By controlling both the order and chirality of monomer units in synthetic polyurethanes, we demonstrate how subtle sequence variations govern chain dynamics, induce defined folding motifs such as helices and sheets, and direct supramolecular organisation in non-biological media.

This structural precision translates into emergent functions, including tunable molecular recognition, catalytic activity, and information storage. Our work demonstrates how entirely synthetic backbones can be programmed to achieve receptor- and enzyme-like properties, opening a pathway toward artificial proteins and establishing a new paradigm for functional materials at the interface of chemistry and biology.