Synthesis of light and dual-redox triple-stimuli-responsive core-crosslinked micelles as nanocarriers for controlled release

Stimulus-responsive polymeric nanoparticles have great potential as nanocarriers. Here, triple-stimuli-responsive core-crosslinked (CCL) micelles were developed that were convenient for drug delivery by taking advantage of dual-redox and UV light synergistic triggers. Amphiphilic block copolymers methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)- b -poly(3-azido-2-hydroxy-propyl methacrylate- co - ο -nitrobenzyl methacrylate) [mPEG- b -P(GMA-N 3 - co -NBM)] were synthesized via atom transfer radical polymerization and ring-opening reaction of ethylene oxide; these block copolymers can spontaneously self-assemble into noncrosslinked (NCL) micelles. Afterward, CCL micelles were prepared using an alkyne-functionalized crosslinking agent. Furthermore, the CCL micelles showed an excellent Nile Red dye molecule encapsulation, light and dual-redox-responsive performance, and increasing release rate of the dye as the concentration of glutathione and light irradiation increased. The triple-stimuli-responsive CCL micelles showed excellent stability and controllable release compared to NCL micelles. Therefore, we have developed a new smart nanocarrier, and the triple-stimuli-responsive CCL micelles could also be a potential delivery system in cancer therapy. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019 , 136 , 47946.