Novel pH-responsive nanoparticles

Langmuir. 2008 Sep 2;24(17):9295-301. doi: 10.1021/la801472x. Epub 2008 Aug 8.

Abstract

In this work we report a new type of pH-responsive micelle-like nanoparticle. Reversible nanoscale structures are formed in solutions of a pH-sensitive hydrophobic polyelectrolyte, poly( N-methacryloyl- l-valine) or poly( N-methacryloyl- l-phenylalanine), and nonionic surfactant (Brij 98) in the presence of hydrochloric acid. The influence of composition and pH on particles size and shape was investigated by a variety of methods. An entity's size and polydispersity could be varied in a broad range making them a perspective candidate as a drug carrier. Unlike the case of typical micelles, our results indicate the presence of cavities in the formed particles. A hypothetical model of a nanoparticle and mechanism of formation are proposed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Electrolytes
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Ions
  • Light
  • Micelles
  • Microscopy, Atomic Force
  • Models, Chemical
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Nanotechnology / methods*
  • Phenylalanine / chemistry
  • Plant Oils / chemistry
  • Polyethylene Glycols / chemistry
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Scattering, Radiation
  • Surface Properties
  • Valine / chemistry

Substances

  • Electrolytes
  • Ions
  • Micelles
  • Plant Oils
  • Polymers
  • Polyethylene Glycols
  • Phenylalanine
  • polyethylene glycol oleyl ether
  • Valine