Amphiphilic block copolymers play an important role in interfacial and colloid chemistry due to possibility of self-assembly processes in solutions especially for encapsulation of poorly soluble drugs. Gradient copolymers have been shown similar self-assembly properties as in the case of block copolymers. They can be prepared by one-pot cationic copolymerization of 2-(m)ethyl-2-oxazoline with 2-aryl-2-oxazolines due to the distinct difference in the rate of polymerization for both types of monomers [1]. Here, we prepared gradient copolymers of 2-(m)ethyl-2-oxazoline and different aromatic 2-oxazolines with the aim to study the effect of type of hydrophobic moieties on size and properties of nanoparticles.<br/><br/>2-(4-Alkyloxyphenyl)-2-oxazolines (ROPhOx) represent new type of lipophilic monomers with tunable side-chain flexibility and hydrophobicity. Cationic copolymerization of ROPhOx with 2-ethyl-2-oxazoline led in all cases to the formation of the gradient copolymers.<br/>Our results showed that gradient copolymers above 12 mol.% of aromatic moiety are able to form stable nanoparticles with size ranged from 100 to 300 nm [2]. Particle size, shape, and loading capacity of model drugs were dependent on type of aromatic comonomers, composition of copolymers, and used drug.

Gradient copolymers from aliphatic and aromatic 2-oxazolines for drug delivery

2019 Spring National Meeting

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