Core-shell structured nanoassemblies based on ?-cyclodextrin containing block copolymer and poly(?-benzyl L-aspartate) via host-guest complexation.

ABSTRACT: Double hydrophilic copolymers (PEG-b-PCDs) with one PEG block and another block containing ?-cyclodextrin (?-CD) units were synthesized by macromolecular substitution reaction. Via a dialysis procedure, complex assemblies with a core-shell structure were prepared using PEG-b-PCDs in the presence of a hydrophobic homopolymer poly(?-benzyl L-aspartate) (PBLA). The hydrophobic PBLA resided preferably in the cores of assemblies, while the extending PEG chains acted as the outer shell. Host-guest interaction between ?-CD and hydrophobic benzyl group was found to mediate the formation of the assemblies, where PEG-b-PCD and PBLA served as the host and guest macromolecules, respectively. The particle size of the assemblies could be modulated by the composition of the host PEG-b-PCD copolymer. The molecular weight of the guest polymer also had a significant effect on the size of the assemblies. The assemblies prepared from the host and guest polymer pair were stable during a long-term storage. These assemblies could also be successfully reconstituted after freeze-drying. The assemblies may therefore be used as novel nanocarriers for the delivery of hydrophobic drugs.

SUBMITTER: Zhang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3201716 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature