Abstract

Abstract Poly( d , l -lactic acid) (PLA) particles, obtained by the emulsification–diffusion process, were surface modified by electrostatic interactions with cationic poly(ethylenimine) (PEI). The charge inversion was evidenced by zeta potential measurements and the adsorption isotherms of PEI were established. No flocculation was observed by Quasi-Elastic Light Scattering (QELS) or Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) so long as the PEI amount in the adsorption medium was close to the surface saturation. With water as an adsorption medium, low PEI loading levels were achieved but, when salt was added, higher amounts of polymer were immobilized at the surface of the PLA particles, as proved by the positive value of the zeta potentials (+20–30 mV). Highly cationized latex particles complexed plasmid DNA under a compacted conformation, as evidenced by the ethidium bromide displacement results, similar to the PEI free in solution. With particles obtained by PEI adsorption from water, low amounts of DNA were loaded on the surface and the level of compaction was low.

Full Text
Paper version not known

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 call

Disclaimer: 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.