Physics of Charged Macromolecules: Synthetic and Biological Systems

Description

A concise introduction to the physics of charged macromolecules, from the basics of electrostatics to cutting-edge modern research developments. This accessible book provides a clear and intuitive view of concepts and theory, and features appendices detailing mathematical methodology. Supported by results from real-world experiments and simulations, this book equips the reader with a vital foundation for performing experimental research. Topics include living matter and synthetic materials including polyelectrolytes, polyzwitterions, polyampholytes, proteins, intrinsically disordered proteins, and DNA/RNA. Serving as a gateway to the growing field of charged macromolecules and their applications, this concept-driven book is a perfect guide for students beginning their studies in charged macromolecules, providing new opportunities for research and discovery.

Murugappan Muthukumar is the Wilmer D. Barrett Professor of Polymer Science and Engineering at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, MA. He is a Fellow of the American Physical Society, is recipient of the Dillon Medal and the Polymer Physics Prize of the American Physical Society, as well as the ACS Polymer Chemistry Award.

'Understanding the behavior of charged macromolecules in solution is one of the grand challenges of modern soft matter physics and chemistry, as these phenomena impact a multitude of cellular processes as well as numerous emerging technologies. This monograph, by a world expert in the field, is unique in providing a self-contained tutorial approach that begins with the basic of electrostatics, polymer conformations, and solution thermodynamics, and proceeds to cover self-assembly, phase separation and coacervation, dynamics, and polyelectrolyte gels. The level is tailored to beginning graduate students, and the author's style gently captures the mathematical sophistication required, while never losing sight of the underlying physics. This book represents the first comprehensive pedagogical overview of the field, and even experts can learn much from its treatment.' Tim Lodge, University of Minnesota 'This book will be essential reading for anyone interested in charged polymers, including biomolecules such as intrinsically disordered proteins and nucleic acids. A wonderful resource for bridging the gap between polymer physics and the biomolecular sciences. Finally a comprehensive treatment of this important topic that is accessible to a broad audience' Ben Schuler, University of Zurich 'An almost encyclopedic work on the physics of charged macromolecules, guiding the reader from concepts, theories, through different methodologies and all the way to complicated phenomenologies. An impressive tour-de-force and a must read at the intersection of soft matter and living matter communities.' Rudi Podgornik, Professor Emeritus, University of Ljubljana