Construction of hydrolytically-degradable thin films via layer-by-layer deposition of degradable polyelectrolytes

Hydrolytically degradable, multilayered films ranging from 10 to 100 nm have been constructed by the layer-by-layer deposition of degradable polycations and oppositely charged polyanions. Polycations play dual roles in these systems, serving as structural components of the film as well as transient elements designed to trigger release; polyanions serve as structural components and as entities to be released or delivered. The films erode in a controlled manner under physiological conditions and are suitable for the incorporation and subsequent controlled release of functional polyanions such as DNA.