Synthesis, Characterization and Application of Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) with a Mass Ratio of Lactic to Glycolic Segments of 52/48

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA) is one of the most representative degradable copolymers and promising drug carriers. In the current paper, the PLGAs with a lactic acid/glycolic acid(LA/GA) molar ratio of 52/48 and various molecular weights were prepared by a melting method. The molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, and thermal stability were determined by 1 H NMR and thermogravimetric analysis methods. The results demonstrated that PLGAs with the fixed LA/GA molar ratio(52/48), different molecular weights, and narrow molecular weight distribution could be obtained by solely altering the reaction time. The PLGA films were prepared, and their properties including micro-structure, mechanical property, in-vitro cytotoxicity, and biodegradability were characterized. In combination with the homogeneous microstructures and mechanical properties, the drug-loading and releasing properties of PLGA 3.2 films were investigated. The results show that PLGA 3.2 film with an LA/GA molar ratio of 52/48 is a promising curcumin carrier.