Enzymatic synthesis of novel aromatic-aliphatic polyesters with increased hydroxyl group density.

BACKGROUND: Polyesters with pendant hydroxyl groups are attractive materials which offer additional functionalization points in the polymer chain. In contrast to chemical polycondensation, lipase regioselectivity enables the synthesis of these materials as certain hydroxyl groups remain unaffected during the enzymatic process. METHODS AND MAJOR RESULTS: In this study, a combination of synthesis development and reactor design was used for the enzymatic synthesis of an aliphatic-aromatic polyester with two different classes of pendant hydroxyl groups. Using 2,6-bishydroxy(methyl)-p-cresol as diol in lipase catalyzed polycondensation with adipic acid required the addition of hexane diol as third monomer for polycondensation to take place. Reaction conditions were explored in order to identify the preferred reaction conditions for the incorporation of the aromatic diol and the enhancement of the hydroxyl group density. Post-polymerization with glycerol at low temperature integrated additional aliphatic hydroxyl groups, reduced the polydispersity and increased the end group functionality. CONCLUSION: A new material with aromatic building blocks and boosted polymer chain reactivity was obtained, which is suggested to find application in various areas of material development from coatings to adhesives.

Inspiratory muscle training in Morquio's syndrome: a case study.

We reported a case of MPS IV A presented with dyspnea on exertion and respiratory muscle weakness. The patient underwent inspiratory muscle training (IMT) using threshold loading for 18 weeks. After 6 weeks of initial IMT, aerobic exercise training consisting of walking was added to the treatment program. Inspiratory muscle strength increased 70%, and 6-minute walk test (6MWT) distance increased to 47 m. With the inclusion of aerobic exercise training, additional increases in inspiratory muscle strength (7%) and 6MWT distance (26.5 m) were obtained. Exertional dyspnea improved from severe to slight after 6 weeks of IMT, and to very slight after additional 12 weeks of combined aerobic training and IMT. Health-related quality of life improved especially in social function, emotional function, vitality, and physical role. In conclusion, inspiratory muscles can be trained with the improvement of muscle strength in a patient with Morquio's syndrome.