Multi-Responsive Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Nanocapsules as Biological Environment-Adaptable Drug Carriers for...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Developing adaptable nanocarriers for targeted cancer therapy is challenging.
• Existing systems struggle to overcome biological barriers and achieve on-demand drug delivery to tumor cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize multi-responsive, hydrophilic, fluorescent molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) nanocapsules for enhanced cancer therapy.
• To create a versatile nanoplatform for on-demand drug delivery and tumor inhibition.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized disulfide-crosslinked fluorescent MIP nanocapsules with sialic acid-imprinted sites.
• Incorporated thermo/pH-responsive block copolymer brushes and poly(methacrylic acid) chains.
• Evaluated drug loading, release kinetics, biocompatibility, and in vivo antitumor efficacy.

Main Results:

• Achieved ultrahigh drug loading capacity (688 µmol g⁻¹) with minimal premature release.
• Demonstrated tumor-microenvironment-triggered polymer brush detachment and charge reversal.
• Showcased prolonged circulation, specific tumor accumulation, enhanced penetration, and rapid intracellular drug release.
• Significantly inhibited tumor growth in mouse models.

Conclusions:

• The developed MIP nanocapsules offer a promising "all-in-one" drug delivery system for cancer therapy.
• This versatile nanoplatform enables tailored drug loading for various cancer treatment strategies.
• The smart nanocarriers demonstrate efficient overcoming of biological barriers and targeted tumor cell delivery.