Bioorthogonal micellar nanoreactors for prodrug cancer therapy using an inverse-electron-demand Diels-Alder reaction

Chem Commun (Camb). 2022 Jun 21;58(50):7026-7029. doi: 10.1039/d2cc02121h.

Abstract

Block copolymer micelles functionalized with tetrazine groups can act as nanoreactors to activate a trans-cyclooctene-functionalized prodrug for releasing anticancer drugs via a bioorthogonal inverse-electron-demand Diels-Alder (IEDDA) reaction. In addition, the IEDDA reaction can be accelerated in the micellar nanoreactor system compared to the free tetrazine system. Moreover, In vivo prodrug activation in a mouse tumor model led to the inhibition of tumor growth without significant systemic toxicity. These results demonstrated their potential for applications as bioorthogonal micellar nanoreactors for cancer chemotherapy.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cycloaddition Reaction
  • Electrons
  • Heterocyclic Compounds*
  • Mice
  • Micelles
  • Nanotechnology
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Prodrugs* / pharmacology

Substances

  • Heterocyclic Compounds
  • Micelles
  • Prodrugs