pH-Triggered release from surface-modified poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (PLGA NP) are effective drug delivery systems.
• A pH-tunable shell is engineered for controlled, two-step release mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize a novel pH-triggered release system for PLGA nanoparticles.
• To investigate the influence of pH on multilayer deposition and polymer release.

Main Methods:

• Layer-by-layer self-assembly of polyelectrolytes (PAA and PDADMAC) onto PLGA nanoparticles.
• Investigation of pH-tunability and isoelectric point shifts.
• Quantitative (1)H NMR analysis to determine polymer release kinetics.

Main Results:

• The pH during multilayer deposition significantly impacts the layer system's titration curve.
• A pH-dependent release of poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDADMAC) was observed, initiated by a decrease in pH.
• Quantitative (1)H NMR confirmed that PDADMAC release is directly related to the pH-induced deprotonation of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA).

Conclusions:

• The developed system demonstrates a quantitative, pH-driven release mechanism.
• The pH-tunable shell offers precise control over the release of encapsulated compounds.
• This technology holds promise for advanced drug delivery applications.