| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 600887 | Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces | 2012 | 8 Pages |
Poly(phenylacetylene) (PPA) and poly(phenylacetylene-co-acrylic acid) (P(PA-co-AA)), nanoparticles bioconjugated with dexamethasone (DXM) during the synthesis, named PPA@DXM and P(PA-co-AA)@DXM, were prepared by a modified surfactant free emulsion method. The loading was studied as a function of different functionality grades of the copolymer and different amounts of drug, obtaining up to 90% of drug loading for P(PA-co-AA)@DXM with 8/1 PA/AA monomer ratio. The SEM images and DLS measurements showed spheres with average diameters in the range 190–500 nm, depending on the content of acrylic acid monomer units in the copolymer and of DXM loading. ζ-potential and surface charge density of DXM loaded nanoparticles were also investigated and confirm the charge density modulation in the range 0.62–2.68σ (μC/m2). The results highlight the enhanced capability of our copolymer of hosting DXM, with the advantage of a control of size, surface functionality, charge and release. Moreover we demonstrate for the first time the ability of P(PA-co-AA) DXM loaded nanoparticles to be used in the apoptosis inhibition of human tumor cells (HeLa). On the basis of the results obtained by comparing the effects elicited in HeLa cells by free DXM versus DXM loaded nanoparticles we confirmed the biological efficacy of our preparation.
Graphical abstractPoly(phenylacetylene), PPA, and poly(phenylacetylene-co-acrylic acid), P(PA-co-AA), nanoparticles bioconjugated with dexamethasone (DXM) during the synthesis were prepared by a modified surfactant free emulsion method. Loading and release studies were performed for biotechnology applications.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Bioconjugated nanoparticles PPA@DXM, P(PA-co-AA)@DXM were prepared by a modified surfactant free emulsion method, loading dexamethasone (DXM) during the synthesis. ► The nanoparticles show spherical shapes (tunable diameters in the range 190–500 nm). ► Hydrophilic groups in the copolymers P(PA-co-AA) induce higher loading efficiency and an enhanced surface charge. ► Benefits: loading capacity of poorly soluble drug and different release time profiles. ► Effects elicited in human cell line by free DXM versus P(PA-co-AA)@DXM confirmed biological efficacy and biocompatibility of our preparation.
