Pearson R., Battaglia G.
University of Sheffield, UK
Keywords: drug delivery, Polymersome, self-assembly
Size is an important parameter in delivery systems. It plays a part in whether a particle avoids filtration, evades immune cell binding and by which internalisation pathways are available. However, it is hard to obtain monodisperse sample sizes on this length scale. Most methods for controlling polymersome size are implicated after polymersome production; including extrusion, sonication and chromatography. These approaches rely on either breaking the particles apart, or separating out the desired size; potentially resulting in a loss of encapsulated payload and sample dilution. In this study we outline a simple approach of controlling the reaction temperature to alter PMPC-PDPA polymersome formation kinetics. By influencing the rates of self-assembly we can obtain greater control over the particle size distribution. A combination of light scattering and electron microscopy was used to measure particle sizes, and the presence of polymersomes was ascertained by encapsulation.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Nanotechnology 2011: Advanced Materials, CNTs, Particles, Films and Composites
Published: June 13, 2011
Pages: 588 - 591
Industry sectors: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing | Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
Topic: Personal & Home Care, Food & Agriculture
ISBN: 978-1-4398-7142-3