Formation of Polyrotaxane Particles via Template Assembly

Abstract

In this study, we report a versatile method to assemble tunable poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based polyrotaxane (PRX) particles and capsules. By threading α-cyclodextrins (αCDs) onto PEG chains physically adsorbed onto template particles and subsequently dissolving the templates, PRX replica particles and hollow capsules are formed. This approach overcomes issues related to CD steric hindrance, and also reduces the multiple processing steps often associated with PRX-based particle formation. By simple variation of the molecular weight and end-group functionality of the PEG, we show that the rate of particle degradation as well as the stability of the particles can be tuned. We also demonstrate the loading and release of model (drug) compounds, achieving burst and controlled release of the compounds. It is envisaged that this approach will provide a flexible platform for the engineering of a diverse range of PRX-based particles, enabling PRX materials to be further explored in various applications.

Nucleoside Analogue-Based Supramolecular Nanodrugs Driven by Molecular Recognition for Synergistic Cancer Therapy

“…Our finding has numerous advantages over currently existing nanotechnology as a delivery vehicle. A large number of carrier materials, including organic and inorganic delivery systems, have been developed to experimentally evaluate their properties for treatment of diseases. − Each of these carrier materials has advantages. However, potential systematic toxicity, unclear metabolism related to the use of nanocarriers, and large-scale economical production are challenging issues confronting these technologies.…”

Engineering Rotaxane-Based Nanoarchitectures via Topochemical Photo-Cross-Linking

“…Traditionally, an inclusion complex where many ring components are threaded onto a linear polymer chain is called a pseudo­polyrotaxane (PPRx). − Moreover, through capping both the chain ends with bulky stoppers, a polyrotaxane (PRx) is obtained. , These new kinds of host–guest polymeric species exhibit broad application prospects in self-healing materials, , targeting transportation, drug and gene delivery, , and so forth. The past decades have also witnessed emerging construction of advanced rotaxane-type nanoarchitectures through alternative methods like transition-metal-ion coordination, − in situ polymerization, − organic–inorganic hybridization, − etc. Among all these methodologies, monomers cross-linked in situ within ring components upon photoirradiation could be regarded as a promising strategy that is conducted remotely without employment of any additional reagents.…”

Lignin nano- and microparticles as template for nanostructured materials: formation of hollow metal-phenolic capsules

“…For example, organic templates such as polystyrene particles dissolve into individual polystyrene chains, which have been shown to be toxic to a variety of human cells. 8,9 Similar issues arise for another common template material, silica, as it is often etched with hydrofluoric acid, 10,11 which not only requires strict safety protocols for use, but also poses serious health risks. 12,13 In a related manner, the template should also be easy to remove in terms of processing (simple dissolution) and versatility (susceptibility to a variety of etching solutions) so that a variety of polymeric nanocoatings can remain intact during dissolution, allowing Please do not adjust margins Please do not adjust margins the capsules to be formed.…”