Abstract
AbstractThe encapsulation of fragile biomacromolecules is crucial in many biotechnological applications but remains challenging. Interfacial complexation (IC) in water‐in‐oil emulsions proves to be an efficient process for the formation of protective polymer layers at the surface of capsule‐precursor water droplets. In this work, the enhancement of conventional IC by introducing thermoresponsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) strands in the interfacial polymer layer is described. Surfactant‐polymer IC is implemented in water‐in‐fluorocarbon oil emulsions between a water‐soluble poly(L‐lysine)‐g‐poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) cationic copolymer (PLL‐g‐PNIPAM) and an oil‐soluble anionic surfactant. Fluorescence imaging demonstrates that the thermal collapse transition of PNIPAM strands, triggered by gentle heating, induces an enrichment of the polymer layer initially formed by IC. Spontaneous co‐precipitation of nanoparticles initially dispersed in the aqueous cores—with no specific treatment—is also achieved upon PNIPAM transition. This process is leveraged to irreversibly segregate these nanoparticles in the interfacial polymer layer, resulting in gel‐like mixed shells. Thermo‐enhancement of conventional IC is thus a promising approach for the straightforward formation, strengthening, and functionalization of capsule shells. As implemented in mild conditions, thermo‐enhanced IC is additionally compatible with the encapsulation of proteins, opening new opportunities for delivery systems of biomacromolecules.
Submitted Version (
Free)
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
