Nanoparticle-stabilized capsules (NPSCs) represent a kind of microcapsule structural motif whose shell consists of nanoparticles assembled at the interface of immiscible solvent droplets. The physical properties of NPSCs can be precisely controlled in a high degree of modular fashion through the proper choice of nanoparticle precursors and conditions of their assembly. However, current assembly methods can only create stable NPSCs ranging from 1-50 mm of size, limiting their efficacy as effective delivery vehicles. By synergistically combining two supramolecular strategies we have generated NPSCs of unprecedentedly small size (~100 nm). These nanoscale assemblies showed high encapsulation ability and were stable in cell culture medium for more than 24h. Their potential as payload delivery vehicles was demonstrated through in vitro cell culture studies using HeLa cells. The nanoparticle shell of NPSCs provides a platform for future incorporation of targeting molecules to realize targeted cancer therapy, a prospect that is currently under investigation.

Nanoparticle stabilized capsules for encapsulation and delivery

240th National Meeting (2010)

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