Preparation of DNA-loaded polysulfone microspheres by liquid-liquid phase separation and its functional utilization

DNA-loaded polysulfone (PSf) microspheres were fabricated by means of a liquid-liquid phase separation technique. The porous microspheres were then used to remove DNA-binding intercalating materials--ethidium bromide, acridine orange, and endocrine disruptors. The DNA-loaded PSf microspheres are stable in water. The stability of the DNA-loaded microspheres and/or the release rate of DNA from the microspheres can be controlled by manipulating the microsphere structure. Increasing the polymer concentration, which causes lower porosity and smaller pores on the outer surface of the microspheres, led to increased stability of the microspheres and decreased release rate of DNA. Additionally, the drying temperature also affected the stability of the microspheres. The DNA-loaded PSf microspheres could effectively accumulate harmful DNA-intercalating pollutants and endocrine disruptors, such as ethidium bromide, acridine orange, biphenyl, dibenzofuran, and dibenzo-p-dioxin. The amount of pollutants removed by the microspheres is dependent on the amount of incorporated DNA and on the microsphere structure. The DNA-loaded microspheres have the potential to be used in environmental applications.