NU 2019-142

INVENTORS
Evan Scott*
Fanfan Du
Baofu Qiao
Monica Olvera

SHORT DESCRIPTION
Novel method for the self-assembly of PPSU20 homopolymers with tailored physical properties

BACKGROUND
Current focus within the nanotechnology space has been placed on the design of nanostructures for the delivery of therapeutics, diagnostic imaging, and nanoreactors. Nanostructures can be formed from a variety of small molecules, natural macromolecules, and synthetic polymers. Within the synthetic polymer space, amphiphilic blocks or random copolymers that can self-assemble into nanostructures have become the main focus. However, the synthesis of these nanostructures is difficult. Since most methods take advantage of hydrophobic effects, these nanostructures show high encapsulation efficiency for hydrophobic payloads but poor encapsulation of water-soluble molecules.

ABSTRACT
Northwestern researchers have developed nanostructures/nanogels consisting of poly(propylene sulfone) homopolymers using a novel DMSO/water method. Using distinct DMSO to water ratios, allows PPSU20 homopolymers to self-assemble into vesicle-like nanoparticles and bundle-like nanogels. The nanostructures are soluble and crystallizable within the same solvent therefore stepwise addition of water allows for dynamic/reproducible formation. This simple and nontoxic homopolymer presents a versatile platform for nanofabrication with an exceptional drug loading efficiency of both hydrophobic and water-soluble cargo. It is also envisioned that more than one cargo can be added to both the DMSO solution and the water resulting in the loading of multiple cargos.

APPLICATIONS

• Bioactive molecules for in vivo transport
• Encapsulation of water-soluble cargo
• Diagnostic imaging agents - loading contrast media
• Intracellular delivery

ADVANTAGES

• High loading capacity and efficiency – nearly 100%
• Dynamic and reproducible formation
• Ease of fabrication
• Nontoxic synthesis

PUBLICATIONS
Du, F, Qiao, B, Bobbala, S, Yi, S, Olvera de la Cruz, M, Scott, E (2019)  “Homopolymer Self-Assembly via Poly(Propylene Sulfone) Networks.” ChemRxiv.

IP STATUS
A US patent application has been filed.