Researchers from Zhejiang University have constructed photo-responsive, biocompatible micelles from amphiphilic diazonaphthoquinone-modified hyperbranched polyphosphates.
HPHEEP–DNQ was synthesised by modification of hydrophilic hyperbranched polyphosphate (HPHEEP) with hydrophobic, light-responsive 2-diazo-1,2-naphthoquinone (DNQ). This polymer could then self-assemble into micelles. Model drug coumarin 102 was encapsulated into these micelles and its controlled release by UV irradiation was confirmed by fluorescence spectroscopy. It was also proved that the micelles had excellent biocompatibility.
Interested to know more? Why not read the full article for free: C. Chen, G. Liu, X. Liu, S. Pang, C. Zhu, L. Lv and J. Ji, Polym. Chem., 2011, DOI: 10.1039/C1PY00094B (Advance Article)
