Polypyrrole coated PLGA core–shell nanoparticles for drug delivery and photothermal therapy

Core–shell PLGA@Polypyrrole nanoparticles (PLGA@PPy NPs) were prepared by polymerization of pyrrole on the surface of PLGA nanoparticles (PLGA NPs). Curcumin (Cur) as a chemotherapeutic agent was encapsulated into PLGA NPs, and used to synthesize the PLGA (Cur)@PPy NPs. Uniform structure and sustained release of Cur has been demonstrated. PLGA@PPy NPs still retain the ability of a photothermal effect upon laser irradiation. This PLGA@PPy NPs could be internalized by cancer cells by endocytosis, and indicate the potent cytotoxicity. Combining the photothermal therapy, the Cur loading PLGA@PPy NPs show enhanced cytotoxicity compared to single chemotherapy or photothermal therapy. This core–shell PLGA@PPy system could be potentially used as a universal drug delivery platform for combination therapy.