Rapid synthesis and characterization of chitosan-g-poly(D,L-lactide) copolymers with hydroxyethyl chitosan as a macroinitiator under microwave irradiation

Syntheses of polylactides by means of tin catalysts

Reaction mechanisms and synthetic methods used for the preparation of homo- and copolylactides based on tin(ii) and tin(iv) catalysts are reviewed.

Sequentially self-assembled polysaccharide-based nanocomplexes for combined chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy of breast cancer

Combination of chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy has emerged as a promising anticancer strategy. Polysaccharide-based nanoparticles are being intensively explored as drug carriers for different forms of combination therapy. In this study, novel multifunctional polysaccharide-based nanocomplexes were prepared from aldehyde-functionalized hyaluronic acid and hydroxyethyl chitosan via sequential self-assembly method. Stable nanocomplexes were obtained through both Schiff's base bond and electrostatic interactions. Chemotherapeutics doxorubicin and pro-photosensitizer 5-aminolevulinic acid were chemically conjugated onto the nanocomplexes via Schiff base linkage. Anti-HER2 antibody as targeting moiety was decorated onto the surface of nanocomplexes. The obtained near-spherical shaped nanocomplexes had an average size of 140 nm and a zeta potential of -24.6 mV, and displayed pH-responsive surface charge reversal and drug release. Active targeting strategy significantly enhanced the cellular uptake of nanocomplexes and combined anticancer efficiency of chemo-photodynamic dual therapy in breast cancer MCF-7 cells. These results suggested that the nanocomplexes had great potential for targeted combination therapy of breast cancer.

PAA-g-PLA amphiphilic graft copolymer: synthesis, self-assembly, and drug loading ability

This article reports the synthesis of a PAA-g-PLA amphiphilic polymer by the combination of RAFT polymerization and organocatalytic ROP, which could self-assemble into spheres in aqueous media for sustained release of doxorubicin.

PLA architectures: the role of branching

Biobased and biodegradable polymers have become more and more interesting in view of waste management and crude oil depletion.