Block copolymers are powerful tools to build self-assembled materials with well-controlled nanostructures, and greatly contribute to rational design of nanostructured functional materials. Herein, we have focused on polyion complex (PIC) formation, which is driven by electrostatic interaction among oppositely charged materials particularly [1]. PICs are characterized by their simple fabrication process, specifically in aqueous media, and have attracted much attention for the self-assembly of biomolecules and colloidal nano-particles toward pharmaceutical and industrial applications. By full utilization of block copolymers consisting of a neutral polyethylene glycol (PEG) chain and charged poly(amino acid) chains, we succeeded in precise tuning of PIC structures at the nanoscopic level as well as stability and physicochemical property tuning [2], which allowed for development of enzymatic nanoreactors for effective bio-imaging, therapy, and biodetoxification [3], and a novel delivery platform for water soluble low-molecular weight drugs [4]. Also, we developed a novel methodology to incorporate functional nanoparticles and proteins into unique PIC nano-architectures, and found some advanced functions, which are helpful for drug delivery applications.

Block-copolymer-based polyion complexes for utilization of proteins and inorganic nanoparticles

2019 Spring National Meeting

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