The chemistry of cross-linked polymeric vesicles and their functionalization towards biocatalytic nanoreactors

Silvia Moreno,Jens Gaitzsch,Brigitte Voit

doi:10.1007/s00396-020-04681-w

Silvia Moreno, Jens Gaitzsch + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1007/s00396-020-04681-w

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Abstract

Self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers into polymersomes continues to be a hot topic in modern research on biomimetics. Their well-known and valued mechanical strength can be increased even further if they are cross-linked. These additional bonds prevent a collapse or disassembly of the polymersomes and open the way towards smart nanoreactors. A variety of chemistries have been applied to obtain the desired cross-linked polymersomes, and therefore, the chemical approaches performed over time will be highlighted in this mini-review. Due to the large number of studies, a selected set of photo-cross-linked and pH-sensitive polymersomes will be specifically highlighted. This system has proven to be a very potent candidate for the formation of nanoreactors and drug delivery systems, and even for the formation of functional multicompartment cell mimics.Graphical abstract

Highlights

Self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers into nanoparticles continues to be of great interest among chemists and biologists [1,2,3]
We have focused on the cross-linking chemistries employed
It is evident that scientists have used a broad range of available chemistries to achieve cross-linked polymersomes

Summary

Introduction

Self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers into nanoparticles continues to be of great interest among chemists and biologists [1,2,3]. Denkova et al cross-linked polymersomes without adding any reagent, but applied harsh, yet effective gamma radiation These polymersomes were made from a similar polymer as Discher et al used, namely PEO21-b-PB33 but with different block lengths as compared with the original publication (structure of the repeating units in Fig. 2) [39, 44]. Similar pH-sensitive block copolymers were prepared using a commercial cross-linker (2-hydroxy-4-(methacryloyloxy) benzophenone, BMA) facilitating the synthesis of precursors and introducing various end groups (N3, NH2, adamantane groups) [9, 65, 66] These end groups allowed further functionalization using different approaches such as click chemistry or host-guest interactions and were used to obtain multifunctionalized polymersomes by pH switch and subsequent photo-cross-linking [9, 65, 66]. This biomimetic approach could be used in fields such as biomedicine, biocatalysis and systems biology [80]

Conclusions

Compliance with ethical standards