Multifunctional core-shell-corona-type polymeric micelles for anticancer drug-delivery and imaging

We have developed core-shell-corona-type polymeric micelles that can integrate multiple functions in one system, including the capability of accommodating hydrophobic dyes into core and hydrophilic drug into the shell, as well as pH-triggered drug-release. The neutral and hydrophilic corona sterically stabilizes the multifunctional polymeric micelles in aqueous solution. The mineralization of calcium phosphate (CaP) on the PAA domain not only enhances the diagnostic efficacy of organic dyes, but also works as a diffusion barrier for the controlled release. Sustained strategy delivers: A facile strategy for fabricating multifunctional polymeric micelles for anticancer drug-delivery and imaging is presented (see figure). Cisplatin can be incorporated into the shell of polymeric micelles that have an imaging agent already encapsulated for visualizing the pH-triggered drug release. The neutral and hydrophilic corona sterically stabilizes the multifunctional polymeric micelles in aqueous solution for long-term circulation in the human body. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.