Synthesis of PEG-PCL-based polyurethane nanoparticles by miniemulsion polymerization

In this work biocompatible polyurethane nanoparticles for future application as noninvasive polymeric nanocarriers using propellant-based inhalers in the treatment of respiratory diseases were prepared by miniemulsion interfacial polymerization derived from isophorone diisocyanate, poly(ϵ-caprolactone), and poly(ethylene glycol). The effects of the surfactant type, nonionic Tween 80 and Brij 35, anionic sodium dodecyl sulfate, and cationic cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide, and poly(ethylene glycol) molar mass on the stability, size and morphology of nanoparticles were evaluated. In addition, the ability of cells to proliferate in contact with polyurethane nanoparticles was assessed by MTS ([(3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfo-phenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt]) assay using human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells, an in vitro model of Type II alveolar epithelium.