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Synthesis of Monodisperse Cylindrical Nanoparticles via Crystallization-driven Self-assembly of Biodegradable Block Copolymers
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Hydration Shell of PEO-PPO-PEO Block Copolymer Assembly Controls the Modulation of Protein Aggregation: Synergistic
Nidhi Anilkumar Jamuna1, Dharini Arumugam1, Sarthak Mandal1
1Department of Chemistry, National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu 620015, India.
ACS Applied Bio Materials
|February 16, 2026
Summary
Pluronic block copolymers influence amyloid aggregation differently. F127 accelerates aggregation, while P123 inhibits it, offering potential therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Materials Science
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Amyloid aggregation is central to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
- Pluronic block copolymers (PEO-PPO-PEO) are used for brain-targeted drug delivery.
- Understanding polymer-protein interactions is key to controlling aggregation.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate how pluronic copolymers P123 and F127 affect protein aggregation kinetics.
- Model protein: hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL).
- Explore the role of polymer hydration and structure in aggregation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two pluronic copolymers (P123 and F127) with varying PEO block lengths.
- Studied aggregation of HEWL in the presence of these copolymers.
- Assessed the impact of the osmolyte trehalose and Cu2+ ions.
Main Results:
- F127 accelerated aggregation onset but limited overall fibril extent due to hydration.
- P123 significantly delayed aggregation onset and inhibited fibril formation via hydrophobic interactions.
- Trehalose enhanced inhibitory effects; pluronic assemblies protected against Cu2+-induced aggregation.
Conclusions:
- Pluronic P123 and F127 exhibit distinct effects on HEWL aggregation kinetics.
- Polymer hydration and interfacial properties critically modulate protein aggregation.
- Trehalose-loaded pluronic micelles show therapeutic promise for inhibiting amyloid formation and toxicity.
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