Hydrazone-Based Amphiphilic Brush Polymer for Fast Endocytosis and ROS-Active Drug Release

Abstract

Due to the high reactivity of reactive oxygen species (ROS), it is essential to sweep them away in time. In this study, ClO–-responsible amphiphilic brush polymers were prepared by free radical polymerization using two monomers consisting of polyethylene glycol as the hydrophilic part, and an alkyl chain connected by hydrazone as the hydrophobic part. The macromolecules assemble into particles with nanoscaled dimensions in a neutral buffer, which ensures quick cellular internalization. The polymer has a low critical micellization concentration and can encapsulate hydrophobic drug molecules up to 19% wt. The micelles formed by the polymer disassemble in a ClO–-rich environment and release 80% of their cargo within 2 h, which possesses a faster release rate compared to the previous systems. The relatively small size and the quick response of hydrazone toward ClO– ensure a quick uptake and elimination of ROS in vitro and in vivo.

Water-soluble red fluorescent protein dimers for hypoxic two-photon photodynamic therapy

“…[1][2][3][4][5] In recent years, researchers have primarily focused on enhancing the water solubility of photosensitizers by encapsulating them in amphiphilic polymers and proteins to form nanoparticles. [6][7][8][9][10] Nevertheless, the tight encapsulation of nanoparticles not only leads to insufficient internal oxygen but also impedes the diffusion of ROS, resulting in reduced efficacy. [11][12][13] While the introduction of multiple quaternary ammonium salts or sulfonates into the molecule has proven effective in improving the water solubility of photosensitizers, issues such as the complex synthesis steps involved and difficult separation persist.…”

Tunable Fluorescence via Self-Assembled Switching of AIE-Active Micelle-like Nanoaggregates

“…Recently, fluorescent micelles that are emissive unimolecular assemblies have offered a clear advantage in resolving the problem above. It may permit the enclosure of additional hydrophobic molecules in the remaining core or construct a fluorescent micelle with a fluorescent surfactant [ 21 , 22 , 23 ]. Thus, much effort has been devoted to the development of luminescent micelles to achieve both carrier ability and emissive features.…”

Optimization of boronic ester-based amphiphilic copolymers for ROS-responsive drug delivery

“…Our group has reported several ROS responsive polymers. 17,18 In this study, we report the development of a series of amphiphilic copolymers containing a ROS-responsive hydrophobic block and hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) side chains (Fig. 1).…”