Organized responsive soft matter: films and colloids

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Nanotechnology affects our daily activities, including medical care. Diagnostics tools as well as medical imaging or drug formulations rely on polymer nanoparticles that protect their load against the harsh in-vivo environment. We recently discovered that poly(betaines) can translocate the cell membrane, bypassing endocytosis, which results in high drug uptake. This success encouraged us to deepen our fundamental understanding of the interactions of poly(betaines) with the cell membrane, using model phospholipids vesicles and interfaces. Specifically, we will assess the effects of the topology (linear, cyclic, star-like) of the poly(betaine) chains on their uptake by the cell membrane. Simulations and a few experiments indicate the importance of chain topology in drug delivery, but the topic is mostly unexplored. The preparation of topologically pure polymers is difficult. With our previous experience in the successful synthesis of cyclic and star nonionic polymers, we are well prepared to overcome the challenge.