PEO-b-PCL Block Copolymers: Synthesis, Detailed Characterization, and Selected Micellar Drug Encapsulation Behavior

Meier, Michael; Aerts, Sebastianus N. H.; Staal, Bastiaan B. P.; Rasa, Mircea; Schubert, Ulrich S.

Abstract:

A series of poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(ecaprolactone) diblock copolymers was synthesized and fully characterized. In particular, MALDI-TOF MS results revealed interesting new insights into their molecular architecture. Small and defined micelles could be prepared from these block copolymers. Utilizing a high-throughput screening approach, it was observed that these micelles are able to encapsulate/solubilize different guest molecules (e.g. drugs) depending on the solubility of the guest in water. Furthermore, it could be proven that a guest is located within a micelle and that these micelles can be utilized as transport vehicles for the encapsulated guest molecules.

Year:

2005

Type of Publication:

Article

Journal:

Macromolecular Rapid Communications

Volume:

26

Pages:

1918 - 1924