Size-controlled nanoassemblies based on cyclodextrin-modified dextrans

Nanoassemblies formed by host/guest interactions between two polymers in aqueous media are studied. Two types of polymers with the same dextran backbone are modified with adamantyl or βCD groups. The sizes of the spontaneously formed nanoassemblies depend on the βCD:Ada ratio and on the total concentration and composition of the mixtures. The results can be rationalized by assuming a core/shell structure of the nanoassemblies, the core resulting from associative phase separation of the two polymers and being stabilized by an external shell made of Ada-grafted dextran and containing ions adsorbed from the solution. Hydrophobic compounds such as benzophenone can be incorporated efficiently without inducing changes in properties of the nanoassemblies.