Synthesis of macromolecular mimics of small leucine-rich proteoglycans with a poly(ethylene glycol) core and chondroitin sulphate bristles.

•The synthesis of biomimetic small leucine-rich proteoglycans is achieved.•Biomimetic molecules are cytocompatible.•End-on attachment of natural sugar brushes to a synthetic core is achieved.•High efficiency conjugation using epoxide chemistry is achieved.