The design and utility of a family of isocyanate functionalized branched mo
nomers, as well as others, are described. Use of these monomers in logical
combinations for the construction of branched architectures leads to the fo
rmation of unique, asymmetric dendritic species possessing multiple functio
nalities. Ramifications of this combinatorial-based, macromolecular constru
ction technique are discussed with respect to functional group positioning
and the potential to create dynamic heterogenous surfaces resembling a mole
cular "Rubik's sphere." (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.