Direct formation of cationic polypeptide vesicle as potential carrier for drug and gene

The pH-responsive polypeptide grafted with polycation was prepared through copper(I)-catalyzed “click chemistry”. The amphiphilic polypeptide directly formed into cationic vesicle when it was dissolved in phosphate buffer solution (PBS). The hydrophilic DOX·HCl was loaded into the hollow core of vesicle. The in vitro release behavior of DOX·HCl from vesicle in PBS could be adjusted by the pH of release media. In vitro cell experiments demonstrated that the DOX·HCl loaded vesicle showed effective cellular proliferation inhibition. In addition, the preliminary gel retardation assay revealed that PLG-g-PAMA could efficiently bind to DNA, indicating its potential use as gene carrier. The more in-depth studies of PLG-g-PAMA vesicle for drug and gene co-delivery are in progress.

► The cationic polypeptide was synthesized through “click chemistry”. ► The amphiphilic polypeptide directly formed into cationic vesicle. ► The in vitro release behavior of DOX·HCl was pH-dependent. ► The polypeptide retarded DNA effectively. ► The vesicle held vast potential for the co-delivery of therapeutic drug and gene.