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Title: Optimizing enzyme-responsive polymersomes for protein-based therapies
Aims: Stimuli-responsive polymersomes are promising tools for protein-based therapies, but require deeper understanding and optimization of their pathology-responsive behavior. Materials & methods: Hyaluronic acid (HA)–poly(b-lactic acid) (PLA) polymersomes self-assembled from block copolymers of varying molecular weights of HA were compared for their physical properties, degradation and intracellular behavior. Results: Major results showed increasing enzyme-responsivity associated with decreasing molecular weight. The major formulation differences were as follows: the HA(5 kDa)–PLA formulation exhibited the most pronounced release of encapsulated proteins, while the HA(7 kDa)–PLA formulation showed the most different release behavior from neutral. Conclusion: We have discovered design rules for HA–PLA polymersomes for protein delivery, with lower molecular weight leading to higher encapsulation efficiency, greater release and greater intracellular uptake.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
2047697
PAR ID:
10503724
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ;
Publisher / Repository:
Nanomedicine
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Nanomedicine
Volume:
19
Issue:
3
ISSN:
1743-5889
Page Range / eLocation ID:
213 to 229
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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