Li X., Malardier-Jugroot C.
Royal Military College of Canada, CA
Keywords: curcumin, folic acid, PSMA
Poly (styrene-alt-maleic anhydride), PSMA, is an amphiphilic alternating copolymer presenting a pH responsible self-assembly into nanotubes in aqueous solution. Its self-assembled structure with a 2nm hydrophobic inner diameter is stable in neutral pH solution, but collapses when pH is increased or decreased. These unique features of PSMA make it a great candidate for controlled release drug delivery vehicle for cancer cells. Previously, our study examined and synthesized folate-SMA conjugates via biodegradable molecule 2,4-diaminobutyric acid, DABA linker. The addition of folic acid was introduced to improve the targeting accuracy while maintaining minimal drug dosage. To further optimize the delivery system, another biodegradable linker N-boc-2, 2’-(thylenedioxy) diethylamine, EDA was investigated. This study will present the computational results of new delivery system regarding its linearity and pH responsiveness, as well as the experimental results supporting the formation of the new structure and characterization of the morphology.In addition, curcumin was included in our studies as a drug mimic to test the drug loading/release efficiency and the pH responsiveness. The results were monitored by fluorescent spectroscopy. This research provides strong justification and guidance for the development of folate-conjugated PSMA as an effective tumor targeting platform.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Biotech, Biomaterials and Biomedical: TechConnect Briefs 2015
Published: June 14, 2015
Pages: 102 - 105
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Medical & Biotech
Topics: Biomaterials, Cancer Nanotechnology
ISBN: 978-1-4987-4729-5