Glycopolypeptide-encapsulated Mn-doped ZnS quantum dots for drug delivery: Fabrication, characterization, and in vitro assessment

In this work, glycopolypeptide nanoparticles (GPNPs) composed of Mn doped ZnS quantum dots (QDs) as core and glycopolypeptides as shell were synthesized through the surface initiated polymerization of N-carboxyanhydrides and surface condensation polymerization with carboxymethyldextran on amine-functionalized QDs. The loading and release behavior of ibuprofen on the GPNPs were investigated. The GPNPs exhibited not only high loading but also controlled release behavior. The cytotoxicity of the GPNPs was evaluated by incubating with HEK293T cell lines and they were shown to be of low cytotoxicity. They appear to be a very promising candidate for targeted drug delivery.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights• Multifunctional core–shell structured glycopolypeptide nanoparticles were fabricated by NCA chemistry. • Glycopolypeptides shell was dextran-poly(l-alanine) and could offer rich –OH and –NH2 for combining drug by multi-bond effect. • Glycopolypeptide nanoparticles are a low-cytotoxic material.