The chemistry of cross-linked polymeric vesicles and their functionalization towards biocatalytic nanoreactors

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Silvia Moreno - , Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (Author)
  • Brigitte Voit - , Chair of Organic Chemistry of Polymers, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (Author)
  • Jens Gaitzsch - , Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (Author)

Abstract

Self-assembly of amphiphilic block copolymers into polymersomes continues to be a hot topic in modern research on biomimetics. Their well-known and valued mechanical strength can be increased even further if they are cross-linked. These additional bonds prevent a collapse or disassembly of the polymersomes and open the way towards smart nanoreactors. A variety of chemistries have been applied to obtain the desired cross-linked polymersomes, and therefore, the chemical approaches performed over time will be highlighted in this mini-review. Due to the large number of studies, a selected set of photo-cross-linked and pH-sensitive polymersomes will be specifically highlighted. This system has proven to be a very potent candidate for the formation of nanoreactors and drug delivery systems, and even for the formation of functional multicompartment cell mimics.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)309-324
Number of pages16
JournalColloid and polymer science
Volume299
Issue number3
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2021
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

Scopus 85087052137
ORCID /0000-0002-4531-691X/work/148607997

Keywords

Keywords

  • Cross-linking, Nanoreactors, Polymersomes, Vesicles