Amphiphilic nanogels: influence of surface hydrophobicity on protein corona, biocompatibility and cellular uptake.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Nanogels (NGs) are promising drug delivery tools but are typically limited to hydrophilic drugs. Many potential new drugs are hydrophobic. Our study systematically investigates amphiphilic NGs with varying hydrophobicity, but similar colloidal features to ensure comparability. The amphiphilic NGs used in this experiment consist of a hydrophilic polymer network with randomly distributed hydrophobic groups. For the synthesis we used a new synthetic platform approach. Their amphiphilic character allows the encapsulation of hydrophobic drugs. Importantly, the hydrophilic/hydrophobic balance determines drug loading and biological interactions. In particular, protein adsorption to NG surfaces is dependent on hydrophobicity and critically determines circulation time

SUBMITTER: Bewersdorff T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6769055 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature