Chapter 31, Problem 31.58P

Compound A is a novel poly (ester amide) copolymer that can be used as a bioabsorbable coating for the controlled release of drugs. A is a copolymer of four monomers, two of which are amino acids or amino acid derivatives. The body’s enzymes recognize the naturally occurring amino acids in the polymer backbone, allowing for controlled enzymatic breakdown of the polymer and steady release of an encapsulated drug. Identify the four monomers used to synthesize A; then use Figure 29.2 to name the two amino acids.