Biodegradable nanoparticles are viable carriers for active compounds in pharmaceutical as well as in personal care products. Moreover, it is known that glycans play essential roles such as cell signalling, lubrication and detection of disease. Consequently, glycosylated nanoparticles have received increased interest in the field. We have recently developed a new class of glycosylated degradable nanoparticles with a polypeptide core and a glycopeptide shell. Herein, we describe the synthesis and analysis of a series of degradable glycosylated polypeptide nanoparticles (GlycoPep NPs) with potential applications as targeted drug delivery vehicles. GlycoPep NPs were synthesised by miniemulsion ring-opening polymerisation (ROP) of N-carboxyanhydrides (NCA) in aqueous conditions; during which varying glycopolypeptides were utilised as surfactants. The size of the GlycoPep NP’s could be tailored based on the core polypeptide composition and the concentration of surfactant used. DLS confirmed the highly stable and reproducible nature of the particles produced. The nanoparticles could be lyophilised and resuspended in water and buffer solutions, enhancing their bio-applicability. Furthermore, the suspension stability of the GlycoPep NPs could be improved through the utilisation and post-polymerisation photo-crosslinking of modified natural amino acids. This methodology opens up a library of bio-inspired glycosylated polypeptide nanoparticles that can be highly tuned. These GlycoPep NP’s have significant potential for the delivery of therapeutic agents.

Glycopolypeptide nanoparticles by N-Carboxyanhydride polymerisation

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.