Branched Poly(ε-caprolactone)-Based Copolyesters of Different Architectures and Their Use in the Preparation of Anticancer Drug-Loaded Nanoparticles

Abstract

Limitations associated with the use of linear biodegradable polyesters in the preparation of anticancer nano-based drug delivery systems (nanoDDS) have turned scientific attention to the utilization of branched-chain (co-)polymers. In this context, the present study evaluates the use of novel branched poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)-based copolymers of different architectures for the preparation of anticancer nanoparticle (NP)-based formulations, using paclitaxel (PTX) as a model drug. Specifically, three PCL-polyol branched polyesters, namely, a three-arm copolymer based on glycerol (PCL-GLY), a four-arm copolymer based on pentaerythritol (PCL-PE), and a five-arm copolymer based on xylitol (PCL-XYL), were synthesized via ring-opening polymerization and characterized by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), intrinsic viscosity, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and cytotoxicity. Then, PTX-loaded NPs were prepared by an oil-in-water emulsion. The size of the obtained NPs varied from 200 to 300 nm, while the drug was dispersed in crystalline form in all formulations. High encapsulation efficiency and high yields were obtained in all cases, while FTIR analysis showed no molecular drug polymer. Finally, in vitro drug release studies showed that the studied nanocarriers significantly enhanced the dissolution rate and extent of the drug.

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) Blends with Poly(caprolactone) and Poly(lactic acid): A Comparative Study

“…This is explained by the larger interfacial effects at the intermediate concentration, which increases both dielectric response and a.c. conductivity due to the Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars effects [55]. Further, the main factor explaining the variation of the overall electrical response of the samples, together with the interfacial effects, is the large differences in polarity between PHBV [56] and PCL [57] and PLA [58].…”

Electrospun poly(ɛ‐caprolactone) membranes modified with heparin and essential fatty acids for biomedical applications

“…8 The hydrophobicity of this polymer is the result of the presence of nonpolar methylene groups and a relatively polar ester group in each repeating unit, in addition to other qualities that are associated with hydrophobicity, such as its high permeability, high solubility in organic solvents, and stability to heat. 9 A drug of interest for release in complex wounds is sodium heparin (SH), a sulfated polysaccharide with anticoagulant properties. SH is widely used as a therapeutic drug, and its association with biocompatible materials allows for controlled drug release.…”

“…The hydrophobicity of this polymer is the result of the presence of nonpolar methylene groups and a relatively polar ester group in each repeating unit, in addition to other qualities that are associated with hydrophobicity, such as its high permeability, high solubility in organic solvents, and stability to heat 9 …”

Branched polyesters from radical ring-opening polymerization of cyclic ketene acetals: synthesis, chemical hydrolysis and biodegradation

“…25,33 A branched polyester can be beneficial, especially when used in biomedical applications where linear polyesters can have some limitations such as low surface functionality and low encapsulation efficiency. 34 Besides, amorphous biodegradable polymers can be valuable in packaging industry. 35 Branched PCL can also result in polymers having different physical and mechanical properties compared to linear PCL as branching will decrease crystallinity as well as melt viscosity.…”