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Modulating Shape of Polyester Based Polymersomes using Osmotic Pressure
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Tubular polymersomes: a cross-linker-induced shape transformation
Matthijs C M van Oers1, Floris P J T Rutjes, Jan C M van Hest
1Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen , Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
Journal of the American Chemical Society
|October 26, 2013
Summary
Polymersomes transform from spheres to tubules using a chemical reaction. This shape change, driven by click chemistry, enables reversible control for potential drug delivery applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials science
- Polymer chemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Polymersomes are vesicle-like structures made from block copolymers.
- Controlling polymersome morphology is crucial for advanced applications.
- Shape transitions offer new functionalities for nanomaterials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the sphere-to-tubule transition in polymersomes.
- To utilize chemical modification for vesicle shape transformation.
- To explore reversible shape changes for potential applications.
Main Methods:
- Employing strain-promoted alkyne-azide cycloaddition (SPAAC) reaction.
- Incorporating azide handles within the hydrophobic domain of polymersomes.
- Using bicyclo[6.1.0]nonyne (BCN)-cross-linker to induce shape change.
Main Results:
- Achieved a sphere-to-tubule transition in polymersomes.
- Successfully induced vesicle stretching via SPAAC reaction.
- Obtained tubular polymersomes up to 2 μm in length.
- Demonstrated reversibility using a cleavable cross-linker.
Conclusions:
- Chemical modification of block copolymer bilayers can induce polymersome shape transitions.
- SPAAC reaction provides a method for controlled polymersome elongation.
- Reversible shape transformation opens possibilities for drug delivery systems.
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