Production of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs) for industrial applications

This project is focused on an exciting and rapidly developing area of biotechnology known as Molecularly Imprinted Polymers or MIPs. MIPs are biomimetic materials that have the capacity to specifically recognise, and bind to, a wide range of target molecules. They are created using a molecular imprinting technique whereby a number of monomer subunits cluster closely around a target molecule and are then fused together forming a MIP polymer.

Once the target is removed, a cavity is left within the MIP polymer with a three-dimensional shape corresponding to that of the target. This shape-fitting relationship, together with a range of non-covalent bonds ensures that MIPs bind with high affinity and specific to their respective targets.

MIPs have a very wide range of applications in research and medicine, all related to their capacity for recognition and binding. For example, they are used as sensors and diagnostics tools, molecular probes and for by-product removal in chemical reactions. MIPs are often compared to monoclonal antibodies, but they have significant advantages over these naturally occurring binding molecules.

For example, they completely avoid animal use, are relatively rapid and cheap to produce, are non-proteinaceous and therefore not subject to protease degradation, are highly robust and retain binding capability under extreme conditions and can be coupled to wide range of other molecules and used carriers of these additional functionalities.

In this project we are going to develop and use MIPs in collaboration with Procter & Gamble (P&G), who are one of the world's leading producers of fast-moving consumer goods, including globally used detergents for clothes and dishwashing. Developing detergents effective at lower temperatures and requiring fewer chemical inputs has massive environmental benefits but requires a deep understanding of the molecular nature of cleaning problems such as stains and dingy items, across the globe.

We hope to develop new MIPs which will be integrated into the work processes at P&G and be used to guide development of novel sustainable cleaning solutions. Progress in these areas would have significant global impact for consumers and the environment. MIPs are highly relevant to many research areas and industrial and medical problems - so experience and training in MIP technology are highly transferable skills.