Preparation of Reduction-sensitive Nanogels with a Large Swelling Capacity by a Surfactant-free Precipitation Method

Abstract

Abstract Reduction-sensitive nanogels with a large swelling capacity were successfully prepared by the crosslinking reaction of biodegradable polymers in water, followed by the insolubilization of the polymers with the gradual addition of ethanol. The obtained nanogels were ca. 200–300 nm in diameter, and had a high water content, over 99%. Moreover, these nanogels were easily decomposed by the cleavage of the disulfide crosslinkages to their thiol groups using a reductant. These biocompatible and biodegradable nanogels prepared without toxic surfactants will be useful as novel carriers for drug delivery systems.