Multifunctional biodegradable nanogels derived from well-defined block copolymers for precision drug delivery

To fully harness the potential of advanced therapeutics, various delivery scenarios must be handled. Polymer-based, core-crosslinked, fully hydrophilic nanogels are a promising platform to tackle these drug delivery challenges. In contrast to micellar delivery systems, nanogels have a stable morphology even in vivo. And compared to lipid-based systems, they feature no innate immune activity and are chemically more easily and precisely modifiable. Over the years we have introduced a stepwise synthesis strategy starting from monomer synthesis, block copolymerization and self-assembly, followed by further functionalization as well as core-crosslinking. This robust process allows for customization of the final nanogel during every step. Nanogels can transport a wide array of drugs, ranging from covalently bound or non-covalently encapsulated small molecules to electrostatically bound nucleic acids. Additionally, targeting motives like carbohydrates, peptides or nanobodies can be attached to the surface. The current generation of nanogels is importantly biodegradable and features various modes of disassembly that respond to different environmental triggers. We foresee a promising future for this evolving platform using the toolbox that chemistry provides to foster drug co-delivery, enhance degradability and adapt to future trends such as personalized medicine and AI.