The invention provides a polymerizable compound within the scope of the general formula: wherein R1 is a group of the general formula ???A???, ???A???Y1???B???, ???A???Y1???B???Y2???C???, or a steroidal moiety, preferably selected of the group of cholesteryl compounds, wherein each A, B and C independently is a substituted or unsubstituted aromatic moiety having 6 to 24 carbon atoms, a substituted