9617837 Kabanov The objective of this international collaboration is to investigate: (1) complexes formed by ionogenic block copolymers and oppositely charged synthetic polyions; and (2) complexes formed by ionogenic block copolymers and surfactants of opposite charge. These complexes represent new classes of materials which combine the properties of cooperative polyelectrolyte or polymer-colloidal complexes (sensitivity to ionic strength and pH, ability to participate in cooperative polyion exchange and substitution reactions) with the ability of amphiphilic block copolymers to form micelles and mesophases. %%% It is expected that these materials could find applications in various fields including drug delivery and release, membrane technologies, biocompatible materials, and biocatalysis. ***