Chitosan-based nanocapsules were synthesized by thiol-ene cross-linking of N-maleoyl chitosan in transparent miniemulsions. Well-defined structures of these nanocapsules were verified by instrumental analysis. Without considerable cytotoxicity, these biodegradable nanocapsules are relatively safe scaffolds for therapeutic deliveries. By dissolving drugs in the oil phase of the miniemulsions, anticancer drugs can be readily loaded into the inner cavities of these nanocapsules. With pH-sensitive �-thioester-based cross-linkages, the drug-loaded nanocapusles showed acid-triggered drug release behavior. Relative to the free drugs, the anticancer drugs delivery via these nanocapsules exhibited improved therapeutic effects.

Chitosan-based nanocapsules for pH-sensitive drug delivery

246th National Meeting (2013)

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