From Polynorbornene to the Complementary Polynorbornene by Replication

Abstract

In undergoing a DNA-like replication process, the single-stranded polynorbornene acts as a template for norbornene monomer adhesion through ester linkages (see scheme). Polymerization of the adhered monomers affords the corresponding unsymmetric double-stranded polymer, which produces a complementary polynorbornene carboxylic acid after hydrolysis. The overall process involves a pass of information from the template polymer to the daughter polymer.