Synthesis of PLGA–mPEG star-like block copolymer to form micelle loaded magnetite as a nanocarrier for hydrophobic anticancer drug

Abstract

The current work focuses on synthesis of a novel nanocarrier containing quercetin drug and equipped with superparamagnetic property for biological applications. The biodegradable poly(lactic-co glycolic acid) (PLGA) and methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) (mPEG) were utilized to prepare star-like block copolymers. Successfully synthesis of PLGA-mPEG copolymer was confirmed by viscometry, FT-IR and 1HNMR analysis. The resulted block copolymers self-assembled to micelle in aqueous medium in the form of PLGA hydrophobic core surrounded inside mPEG hydrophilic corona. This water-dispersible micelle entrapped quercetin drug and magnetite nanoparticles by dialysis method. The obtained quercetin-loaded magnetic micelle was shown acceptable critical micelle concentration (CMC) value (0.014 mg/ml), superparamagnetic property (VSM, Ms = 26 emu/g), desired size distribution (DLS, 20–90 nm) and proper morphology (SEM and TEM micrographs). Drug loading content and entrapment efficiency were obtained 13.4% and 68%, respectively. The controlled release was reached to 37% at first 7 h and 90% after 72 h. In vitro cytotoxicity was performed and the cell viability of quercetin-loaded micelle were 69% and 44%, after 24 and 48 h. This new synthesized micelle can be used as a promising nanocarrier to treatment of cancer and controlled release of hydrophobic drug.