Rare Earth Metal-Mediated Group Transfer Polymerization (REM-GTP) is a method to generate polymers with defined molecular weights and narrow polydispersities. Its unique character allows the synthesis of copolymers as well as the introduction of a broad range of functionalities to the chain end. This living polymerization type can be used for a variety of Michael-type acceptor monomers. Especially interesting phosphorus containing monomers are the vinylphosphonates, because their polymers exhibit water solubility, a tunable lower critical solution temperature and biocompatibility. Very recently our group succeeded to apply these fascinating properties and develop a new type of multiresponsive nanocarriers for the use in the field of targeted drug delivery. We synthesized novel temperature and pH sensitive drug delivery vehicles as a potent tool in cancer therapy. Especially promising for these biomedicinal applications are cross-linked nano particles, since their formation is, in comparison to micelles, not concentration dependant and their properties are well tunable. In case of polyvinylphosphonates, it is possible to adjust the temperature sensitivity via variation of the used monomer ratios. Furthermore, the desired pH response can be achieved through the modification of the linker units. These highly tunable properties make these smart polymers very attractive for a broad range of drug delivery applications and are therefore a fascinating opportunity for a tailor-made next generation cancer therapy.

Smart polymers - drug delivery with polyvinylphosphonates

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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