1
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Rikken RSM, Kleuskens S, Abdelmohsen LKEA, Engelkamp H, Nolte RJM, Maan JC, van Hest JCM, Wilson DA, Christianen PCM. The average magnetic anisotropy of polystyrene in polymersomes self-assembled from poly(ethylene glycol)- b-polystyrene. SOFT MATTER 2024; 20:730-737. [PMID: 38117161 PMCID: PMC10806999 DOI: 10.1039/d3sm01333b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Using the diamagnetic anisotropy of polymers for the characterization of polymers and polymer aggregates is a relatively new approach in the field of soft-matter and polymer research. So far, a good and thorough quantitative description of these diamagnetic properties has been lacking. Using a simple equation that links the magnetic properties of an average polymer repeating unit to those of the polymer vesicle of any shape, we measured, using magnetic birefringence, the average diamagnetic anisotropy of a polystyrene (PS) repeating unit, ΔχPS, inside a poly(ethylene glycol)-polystyrene (PEG-PS) polymersome membrane as a function of the PS-length and as a function of the preparation method. All obtained values of ΔχPS have a negative sign which results in polymers tending to align perpendicular to an applied magnetic field. Combined, the same order of magnitude of ΔχPS (10-12 m3 mol-1) for all polymersome shapes proves that the individual polymers are organized similarly regardless of the PS length and polymersome shape. Furthermore, the value found is only a fraction (∼1%) of what it can maximally be due to the random coiling of the polymers. We, therefore, predict that further ordering of the polymers within the membrane could lead to similar responses at much lower magnetic fields, possibly obtainable with permanent magnets, which would be highly advantageous for practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger S M Rikken
- High Field Magnet Laboratory (HFML - EMFL), Radboud University, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Institute of Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra Kleuskens
- High Field Magnet Laboratory (HFML - EMFL), Radboud University, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Institute of Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Loai K E A Abdelmohsen
- Institute of Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Engelkamp
- High Field Magnet Laboratory (HFML - EMFL), Radboud University, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Institute of Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roeland J M Nolte
- Institute of Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan C Maan
- High Field Magnet Laboratory (HFML - EMFL), Radboud University, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Institute of Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan C M van Hest
- Institute of Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Daniela A Wilson
- Institute of Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Peter C M Christianen
- High Field Magnet Laboratory (HFML - EMFL), Radboud University, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Institute of Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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2
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Perera RM, Gupta S, Li T, Bleuel M, Hong K, Schneider GJ. Influence of NaCl on shape deformation of polymersomes. SOFT MATTER 2021; 17:4452-4463. [PMID: 33908443 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm02271c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Polymersomes frequently appear in the literature as promising candidates for a wide range of applications from targeted drug delivery to nanoreactors. From a cell mimetic point of view, it is important to understand the size and shape changes of the vesicles in the physiological environment since that can influence the drug delivery mechanism. In this work we studied the structural features of polymersomes consisting of poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(dimethylsiloxane)-poly(ethylene glycol) at the nanoscopic length scale in the presence of NaCl, which is a very common molecule in the biotic aqueous environment. We used dynamic light scattering (DLS), cryo-TEM, small angle neutron scattering (SANS) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). We observed transformation of polymersomes from spherical to elongated vesicles at low salt concentration and into multivesicular structures at high salt concentration. Model fitting analysis of SANS data indicated a reduction of vesicle radius up to 47% and from the SAXS data we observed an increase in membrane thickness up to 8% and an increase of the PDMS hydrophobic segment up to 11% indicating stretching of the membrane due to osmotic imbalance. Also, from the increase in the interlamellar repeat distance up to 98% under high salt concentrations, we concluded that the shape and structural changes observed in the polymersomes are a combined result of osmotic pressure change and ion-membrane interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasangi M Perera
- Department of Chemistry, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA.
| | - Sudipta Gupta
- Department of Chemistry, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA.
| | - Tianyu Li
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Markus Bleuel
- NIST Center for Neutron Research, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8562, USA and Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742-2115, USA
| | - Kunlun Hong
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA and Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA
| | - Gerald J Schneider
- Department of Chemistry, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA. and Department of Physics & Astronomy, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA.
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3
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Toebes BJ, Wilson DA. Membrane folding and shape transformation in biomimetic vesicles. SOFT MATTER 2021; 17:1724-1730. [PMID: 33464275 DOI: 10.1039/d0sm01932a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Polymeric self-assembled structures have been a topic of interest in the last few decades, specifically for the use of biomedical applications, such as drug delivery. It is exciting to investigate the formation of various shapes and sizes of such structures, as the morphology is crucial for their function. In this manuscript the important factors to control the morphology during self-assembly and subsequent shape transformation processes are discussed. We describe the main parameters to control and show the practical application of these parameters on biodegradable amphiphilic PEG-PDLLA block-copolymers. Thereby a variety of different morphologies, including micelles, worms, LCVs, discs, rods, stomatocytes, nested vesicles, and spherical vesicles of various sizes are created using only four diblock-copolymers and with careful tuning of two organic solvents. Further advances will lead to formation of more complex structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Jelle Toebes
- Systems Chemistry Department, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Daniela A Wilson
- Systems Chemistry Department, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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4
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Torres J, Dhas N, Longhi M, García MC. Overcoming Biological Barriers With Block Copolymers-Based Self-Assembled Nanocarriers. Recent Advances in Delivery of Anticancer Therapeutics. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:593197. [PMID: 33329001 PMCID: PMC7734332 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.593197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the most common life-threatening illness and it is the world's second largest cause of death. Chemotherapeutic anticancer drugs have many disadvantages, which led to the need to develop novel strategies to overcome these shortcomings. Moreover, tumors are heterogenous in nature and there are various biological barriers that assist in treatment reisistance. In this sense, nanotechnology has provided new strategies for delivery of anticancer therapeutics. Recently, delivery platforms for overcoming biological barriers raised by tumor cells and tumor-bearing hosts have been reported. Among them, amphiphilic block copolymers (ABC)-based self-assembled nanocarriers have attracted researchers worldwide owing to their unique properties. In this work, we addressed different biological barriers for effective cancer treatment along with several strategies to overcome them by using ABC-based self-assembled nanostructures, with special emphasis in those that have the ability to act as responsive nanocarriers to internal or external environmental clues to trigger release of the payload. These nanocarriers have shown promising properties to revolutionize cancer treatment and diagnosis, but there are still challenges for their successful translation to clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jazmin Torres
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Namdev Dhas
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Marcela Longhi
- Departamento de Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo en Tecnología Farmacéutica (UNITEFA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Mónica C. García
- Departamento de Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo en Tecnología Farmacéutica (UNITEFA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina
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5
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Lombardo D, Calandra P, Kiselev MA. Structural Characterization of Biomaterials by Means of Small Angle X-rays and Neutron Scattering (SAXS and SANS), and Light Scattering Experiments. Molecules 2020; 25:E5624. [PMID: 33260426 PMCID: PMC7730346 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25235624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Scattering techniques represent non-invasive experimental approaches and powerful tools for the investigation of structure and conformation of biomaterial systems in a wide range of distances, ranging from the nanometric to micrometric scale. More specifically, small-angle X-rays and neutron scattering and light scattering techniques represent well-established experimental techniques for the investigation of the structural properties of biomaterials and, through the use of suitable models, they allow to study and mimic various biological systems under physiologically relevant conditions. They provide the ensemble averaged (and then statistically relevant) information under in situ and operando conditions, and represent useful tools complementary to the various traditional imaging techniques that, on the contrary, reveal more local structural information. Together with the classical structure characterization approaches, we introduce the basic concepts that make it possible to examine inter-particles interactions, and to study the growth processes and conformational changes in nanostructures, which have become increasingly relevant for an accurate understanding and prediction of various mechanisms in the fields of biotechnology and nanotechnology. The upgrade of the various scattering techniques, such as the contrast variation or time resolved experiments, offers unique opportunities to study the nano- and mesoscopic structure and their evolution with time in a way not accessible by other techniques. For this reason, highly performant instruments are installed at most of the facility research centers worldwide. These new insights allow to largely ameliorate the control of (chemico-physical and biologic) processes of complex (bio-)materials at the molecular length scales, and open a full potential for the development and engineering of a variety of nano-scale biomaterials for advanced applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Lombardo
- CNR-IPCF, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto per i Processi Chimico-Fisici, 98158 Messina, Italy
| | - Pietro Calandra
- CNR-ISMN, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto Studio Materiali Nanostrutturati, 00015 Roma, Italy;
| | - Mikhail A. Kiselev
- Frank Laboratory of Neutron Physics, Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna, 141980 Moscow, Russia;
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6
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Bitter S, Schlötter M, Schilling M, Krumova M, Polarz S, Winter RF. Ferro-self-assembly: magnetic and electrochemical adaptation of a multiresponsive zwitterionic metalloamphiphile showing a shape-hysteresis effect. Chem Sci 2020; 12:270-281. [PMID: 34163595 PMCID: PMC8178951 DOI: 10.1039/d0sc05249c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Metallosurfactants are molecular compounds which combine the unique features of amphiphiles, like their capability of self-organization, with the peculiar properties of metal complexes like magnetism and a rich redox chemistry. Considering the high relevance of surfactants in industry and science, amphiphiles that change their properties on applying an external trigger are highly desirable. A special feature of the surfactant reported here, 1-(Z)-heptenyl-1′-dimethylammonium-methyl-(3-sulfopropyl)ferrocene (6), is that the redox-active ferrocene constituent is in a gemini-position. Oxidation to 6+ induces a drastic change of the surfactant's properties accompanied by the emergence of paramagnetism. The effects of an external magnetic field on vesicles formed by 6+ and the associated dynamics were monitored in situ using a custom-made optical birefringence and dual dynamic light scattering setup. This allowed us to observe the optical anisotropy as well as the anisotropy of the diffusion coefficient and revealed the field-induced formation of oriented string-of-pearls-like aggregates and their delayed disappearance after the field is switched off. The self-organization properties of a stimuli responsive amphiphile can be altered by subjecting the paramagnetic oxidized form to a magnetic field of 0.8 T and monitored in real time by coupling optical birefringence with dynamic light scattering.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Bitter
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz Universitätsstrasse 10 78457 Konstanz Germany
| | - Moritz Schlötter
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz Universitätsstrasse 10 78457 Konstanz Germany
| | - Markus Schilling
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz Universitätsstrasse 10 78457 Konstanz Germany
| | - Marina Krumova
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz Universitätsstrasse 10 78457 Konstanz Germany
| | - Sebastian Polarz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz Universitätsstrasse 10 78457 Konstanz Germany .,Institute of Inorganic Chemistry, Leibniz-University Hannover Callinstrasse 9 30167 Hannover Germany
| | - Rainer F Winter
- Department of Chemistry, University of Konstanz Universitätsstrasse 10 78457 Konstanz Germany
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7
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Men Y, Li W, Lebleu C, Sun J, Wilson DA. Tailoring Polymersome Shape Using the Hofmeister Effect. Biomacromolecules 2020; 21:89-94. [PMID: 31525869 PMCID: PMC6961129 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.9b00924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Reshaping polymersomes remains a challenge for both size and shape control, methodology development, and mechanism understanding, which hindered their application in nanomedicine and nanomachine. Unlike liposome, polymersomes are capable of maintaining their shape due to their rigid and glassy membrane. Here we use the Hofmeister effect to guide the shape control of polymersome by tuning the ion type and concentration. Multiple morphologies such as ellipsoid, tube, disc, stomatocytes, and large compound vesicles are found. These results give evidence of demonstrating that the shape changes are not only induced by osmotic pressure, but also by the interaction with the polymersome membranes. Additionally, this methodology provides a general tool to tailor the shape of polymersome into various morphologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjun Men
- Radboud University , Institute for Molecules and Materials , Heyendaalseweg 135 , 6525 AJ , Nijmegen , The Netherlands
| | - Wei Li
- Radboud University , Institute for Molecules and Materials , Heyendaalseweg 135 , 6525 AJ , Nijmegen , The Netherlands
| | - Coralie Lebleu
- Radboud University , Institute for Molecules and Materials , Heyendaalseweg 135 , 6525 AJ , Nijmegen , The Netherlands
| | - Jiawei Sun
- Radboud University , Institute for Molecules and Materials , Heyendaalseweg 135 , 6525 AJ , Nijmegen , The Netherlands
| | - Daniela A Wilson
- Radboud University , Institute for Molecules and Materials , Heyendaalseweg 135 , 6525 AJ , Nijmegen , The Netherlands
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8
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Optical Birefringence Growth Driven by Magnetic Field in Liquids: The Case of Dibutyl Phosphate/Propylamine System. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/app10010164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Magnetically-induced birefringence is usually low in molecular liquids owing to the low magnetic energy of molecules with respect to the thermal one. Despite this, it has been found that a mixture of dibutyl phosphate and propylamine at propylamine molar ratio (X) around 0.33 surprisingly gives an intense effect (∆n/λ ≈ −0.1 at 1 Tesla). In this paper the time- and intensity- response to the magnetic field of such mixture have been studied. It was found that the reaction to the magnetic field is unusually slow (from several minutes to hours) depending of the magnetic field intensity. On the basis of the data, the model of orientable dipoles dispersed in a matrix enables to interpret the magnetic field-induced self-assembly in terms of soft molecules-based nanostructures. The analogy with systems made of magnetically polarizable (solid or soft) particles dispersed in liquid carrier allows understanding, at the microscopic scale, the molecular origin and the supra-molecular dynamics involved in the observed behavior. The data present a novel phenomenon in liquid phase where the progressive building up/change of ordered and strongly interacting amphiphiles is driven by the magnetic field.
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9
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Keller S, Toebes BJ, Wilson DA. Active, Autonomous, and Adaptive Polymeric Particles for Biomedical Applications. Biomacromolecules 2019; 20:1135-1145. [PMID: 30574789 PMCID: PMC6415150 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.8b01673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Nature's motors are complex and efficient systems, which are able to respond to many different stimuli present in the cell. Nanomotors for biomedical applications are designed to mimic nature's complexity; however, they usually lack biocompatibility and the ability to adapt to their environment. Polymeric vesicles can overcome these problems due to the soft and flexible nature of polymers. Herein we will highlight the recent progress and the crucial steps needed to fabricate active and adaptive motor systems for their use in biomedical applications and our approach to reach this goal. This includes the formation of active, asymmetric vesicles and the incorporation of a catalyst, together with their potential in biological applications and the challenges still to overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daniela A. Wilson
- Institute of Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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10
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Men Y, Tu Y, Li W, Peng F, Wilson DA. Poly(ionic liquid)s Based Brush Type Nanomotor. MICROMACHINES 2018; 9:E364. [PMID: 30424297 PMCID: PMC6082249 DOI: 10.3390/mi9070364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A brush type nanomotor was fabricated via assembly assistant polymerization of poly(ionic liquid) and surface grafting polymerization. The method for large-scale fabrication of brush nanomotors with soft surfaces is described. These soft locomotive particles are based on core-shell brush nanoparticles assembled from poly(ionic liquid) as core and thermoresponsive PNIPAM as brush shells on which platinum nanoparticle (PtNP) were grown in situ. The particles show non-Brownian motion in H₂O₂ solution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjun Men
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Yingfeng Tu
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Wei Li
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Fei Peng
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Daniela A Wilson
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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11
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Leong J, Teo JY, Aakalu VK, Yang YY, Kong H. Engineering Polymersomes for Diagnostics and Therapy. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7:e1701276. [PMID: 29334183 PMCID: PMC6377267 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201701276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Engineered polymer vesicles, termed as polymersomes, confer a flexibility to control their structure, properties, and functionality. Self-assembly of amphiphilic copolymers leads to vesicles consisting of a hydrophobic bilayer membrane and hydrophilic core, each of which is loaded with a wide array of small and large molecules of interests. As such, polymersomes are increasingly being studied as carriers of imaging probes and therapeutic drugs. Effective delivery of polymersomes necessitates careful design of polymersomes. Therefore, this review article discusses the design strategies of polymersomes developed for enhanced transport and efficacy of imaging probes and therapeutic drugs. In particular, the article focuses on overviewing technologies to regulate the size, structure, shape, surface activity, and stimuli- responsiveness of polymersomes and discussing the extent to which these properties and structure of polymersomes influence the efficacy of cargo molecules. Taken together with future considerations, this article will serve to improve the controllability of polymersome functions and accelerate the use of polymersomes in biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Leong
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA, Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, The Nanos, Singapore 138669, Singapore
| | - Jye Yng Teo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA, Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, The Nanos, Singapore 138669, Singapore
| | - Vinay K. Aakalu
- Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, University of Illinois at Chicago, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Yi Yan Yang
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, The Nanos, Singapore 138669, Singapore
| | - Hyunjoon Kong
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Department of Bioengineering, Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA,
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12
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Men Y, Li W, Janssen GJ, Rikken RSM, Wilson DA. Stomatocyte in Stomatocyte: A New Shape of Polymersome Induced via Chemical-Addition Methodology. NANO LETTERS 2018; 18:2081-2085. [PMID: 29411614 PMCID: PMC5997403 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.8b00187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Accurate control of the shape transformation of polymersome is an important and interesting challenge that spans across disciplines such as nanomedicine and nanomachine. Here, we report a fast and facile methodology of shape manipulation of polymersome via out-of-equilibrium polymer self-assembly and shape change by chemical addition of additives. Due to its increased permeability, hydrophilicity, and fusogenic properties, poly(ethylene oxide) was selected as the additive for bringing the system out of equilibrium via fast addition into the polymersome organic solution. A new shape, stomatocyte-in-stomatocyte (sto-in-sto), is obtained for the first time. Moreover, fast shape transformation within less than 1 min to other relevant shapes such as stomatocyte and large compound vesicles was also obtained and accurately controlled in a uniform dispersion. This methodology is demonstrated as a general strategy with which to push the assembly further out of equilibrium to generate unusual nanostructures in a controllable and fast manner.
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13
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Pijpers IAB, Abdelmohsen LKEA, Williams DS, van Hest JCM. Morphology Under Control: Engineering Biodegradable Stomatocytes. ACS Macro Lett 2017; 6:1217-1222. [PMID: 29214115 PMCID: PMC5708263 DOI: 10.1021/acsmacrolett.7b00723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Biodegradable nanoarchitectures, with well-defined morphological features, are of great importance for nanomedical research; however, understanding (and thereby engineering) their formation is a substantial challenge. Herein, we uncover the supramolecular potential of PEG-PDLLA copolymers by exploring the physicochemical determinants that result in the transformation of spherical polymersomes into stomatocytes. To this end, we have engineered blended polymersomes (comprising copolymers with varying lengths of PEG), which undergo solvent-dependent reorganization inducing negative spontaneous membrane curvature. Under conditions of anisotropic solvent composition across the PDLLA membrane, facilitated by the dialysis methodology, we demonstrate osmotically induced stomatocyte formation as a consequence of changes in PEG solvation, inducing negative spontaneous membrane curvature. Controlled formation of unprecedented, biodegradable stomatocytes represents the unification of supramolecular engineering with the theoretical understanding of shape transformation phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imke A. B. Pijpers
- Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513
(STO 3.31), 5600MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | | | - David S. Williams
- Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513
(STO 3.31), 5600MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
- Department
of Chemistry, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, United Kingdom
| | - Jan C. M. van Hest
- Eindhoven University of Technology, P.O. Box 513
(STO 3.31), 5600MB Eindhoven, The Netherlands
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14
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Allen S, Osorio O, Liu YG, Scott E. Facile assembly and loading of theranostic polymersomes via multi-impingement flash nanoprecipitation. J Control Release 2017; 262:91-103. [PMID: 28736263 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2017.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2017] [Revised: 06/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Flash nanoprecipitation (FNP) has proven to be a powerful tool for the rapid and scalable assembly of solid-core nanoparticles from block copolymers. The process can be performed using a simple confined impingement jets mixer and provides an efficient and reproducible method of loading micelles with hydrophobic drugs. To date, FNP has not been applied for the fabrication of complex or vesicular nanoarchitectures capable of encapsulating hydrophilic molecules or bioactive protein therapeutics. Here, we present FNP as a single customizable method for the assembly of bicontinuous nanospheres, filomicelles and vesicular, multilamellar and tubular polymersomes from poly(ethylene glycol)-bl-poly(propylene sulfide) block copolymers. Multiple impingements of polymersomes assembled via FNP were shown to decrease vesicle diameter and polydispersity, allowing gram-scale fabrication of monodisperse polymersomes within minutes. Furthermore, we demonstrate that FNP supports the simultaneous loading of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules respectively into the polymersome membrane and aqueous lumen, and encapsulated enzymes were found to be released and remain active following vesicle lysis. As an example application, theranostic polymersomes were generated via FNP that were dual loaded with the immunosuppressant rapamycin and a fluorescent dye to link targeted immune cells with the elicited immunomodulation of T cells. By expanding the capabilities of FNP, we present a rapid, scalable and reproducible method of nanofabrication for a wide range of nanoarchitectures that are typically challenging to assemble and load with therapeutics for controlled delivery and theranostic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Allen
- Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Omar Osorio
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Yu-Gang Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Evan Scott
- Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering and Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA; Simpson Querrey Institute, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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15
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Hu X, Zhang Y, Xie Z, Jing X, Bellotti A, Gu Z. Stimuli-Responsive Polymersomes for Biomedical Applications. Biomacromolecules 2017; 18:649-673. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.6b01704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 265] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiuli Hu
- Joint
Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
- State
Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Jilin 130022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuqi Zhang
- Joint
Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
| | - Zhigang Xie
- State
Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Jilin 130022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiabin Jing
- State
Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Jilin 130022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Adriano Bellotti
- Joint
Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
- Department
of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
| | - Zhen Gu
- Joint
Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, United States
- Center
for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery and Division of Molecular Pharmaceutics,
UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
- Department
of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
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16
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Abdelmohsen LK, Rikken RS, Christianen PC, van Hest JC, Wilson DA. Shape characterization of polymersome morphologies via light scattering techniques. POLYMER 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.polymer.2016.06.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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17
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Rikken RSM, Engelkamp H, Nolte RJM, Maan JC, van Hest JCM, Wilson DA, Christianen PCM. Shaping polymersomes into predictable morphologies via out-of-equilibrium self-assembly. Nat Commun 2016; 7:12606. [PMID: 27558520 PMCID: PMC5007325 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Polymersomes are bilayer vesicles, self-assembled from amphiphilic block copolymers. They are versatile nanocapsules with adjustable properties, such as flexibility, permeability, size and functionality. However, so far no methodological approach to control their shape exists. Here we demonstrate a mechanistically fully understood procedure to precisely control polymersome shape via an out-of-equilibrium process. Carefully selecting osmotic pressure and permeability initiates controlled deflation, resulting in transient capsule shapes, followed by reinflation of the polymersomes. The shape transformation towards stomatocytes, bowl-shaped vesicles, was probed with magnetic birefringence, permitting us to stop the process at any intermediate shape in the phase diagram. Quantitative electron microscopy analysis of the different morphologies reveals that this shape transformation proceeds via a long-predicted hysteretic deflation-inflation trajectory, which can be understood in terms of bending energy. Because of the high degree of controllability and predictability, this study provides the design rules for accessing polymersomes with all possible different shapes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S M Rikken
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,High Field Magnet Laboratory (HFML-EMFL), Radboud University Nijmegen, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - H Engelkamp
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,High Field Magnet Laboratory (HFML-EMFL), Radboud University Nijmegen, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - R J M Nolte
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J C Maan
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,High Field Magnet Laboratory (HFML-EMFL), Radboud University Nijmegen, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J C M van Hest
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - D A Wilson
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - P C M Christianen
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,High Field Magnet Laboratory (HFML-EMFL), Radboud University Nijmegen, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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18
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Abdelmohsen LKA, Williams DS, Pille J, Ozel SG, Rikken RSM, Wilson DA, van Hest JCM. Formation of Well-Defined, Functional Nanotubes via Osmotically Induced Shape Transformation of Biodegradable Polymersomes. J Am Chem Soc 2016; 138:9353-6. [PMID: 27374777 PMCID: PMC4974604 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.6b03984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Polymersomes are robust, versatile nanostructures that can be tailored by varying the chemical structure of copolymeric building blocks, giving control over their size, shape, surface chemistry, and membrane permeability. In particular, the generation of nonspherical nanostructures has attracted much attention recently, as it has been demonstrated that shape affects function in a biomedical context. Until now, nonspherical polymersomes have only been constructed from nondegradable building blocks, hampering a detailed investigation of shape effects in nanomedicine for this category of nanostructures. Herein, we demonstrate the spontaneous elongation of spherical polymersomes comprising the biodegradable copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(d,l-lactide) into well-defined nanotubes. The size of these tubes is osmotically controlled using dialysis, which makes them very easy to prepare. To confirm their utility for biomedical applications, we have demonstrated that, alongside drug loading, functional proteins can be tethered to the surface utilizing bio-orthogonal "click" chemistry. In this way the present findings establish a novel platform for the creation of biocompatible, high-aspect ratio nanoparticles for biomedical research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jan Pille
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sema G. Ozel
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roger S. M. Rikken
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Daniela A. Wilson
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan C. M. van Hest
- Institute for Molecules and
Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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19
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Abdelmohsen LKEA, Nijemeisland M, Pawar GM, Janssen GJA, Nolte RJM, van Hest JCM, Wilson DA. Dynamic Loading and Unloading of Proteins in Polymeric Stomatocytes: Formation of an Enzyme-Loaded Supramolecular Nanomotor. ACS NANO 2016; 10:2652-60. [PMID: 26811982 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.5b07689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Self-powered artificial nanomotors are currently attracting increased interest as mimics of biological motors but also as potential components of nanomachinery, robotics, and sensing devices. We have recently described the controlled shape transformation of polymersomes into bowl-shaped stomatocytes and the assembly of platinum-driven nanomotors. However, the platinum encapsulation inside the structures was low; only 50% of the structures contained the catalyst and required both high fuel concentrations for the propelling of the nanomotors and harsh conditions for the shape transformation. Application of the nanomotors in a biological setting requires the nanomotors to be efficiently propelled by a naturally available energy source and at biological relevant concentrations. Here we report a strategy for enzyme entrapment and nanomotor assembly via controlled and reversible folding of polymersomes into stomatocytes under mild conditions, allowing the encapsulation of the proteins inside the stomach with almost 100% efficiency and retention of activity. The resulting enzyme-driven nanomotors are capable of propelling these structures at low fuel concentrations (hydrogen peroxide or glucose) via a one-enzyme or two-enzyme system. The confinement of the enzymes inside the stomach does not hinder their activity and in fact facilitates the transfer of the substrates, while protecting them from the deactivating influences of the media. This is particularly important for future applications of nanomotors in biological settings especially for systems where fast autonomous movement occurs at physiological concentrations of fuel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loai K E A Abdelmohsen
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University , Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marlies Nijemeisland
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University , Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Gajanan M Pawar
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University , Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Geert-Jan A Janssen
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University , Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Roeland J M Nolte
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University , Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan C M van Hest
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University , Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Daniela A Wilson
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University , Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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20
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Schoonen L, van Hest JCM. Compartmentalization Approaches in Soft Matter Science: From Nanoreactor Development to Organelle Mimics. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2016; 28:1109-28. [PMID: 26509964 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201502389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Revised: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Compartmentalization is an essential feature found in living cells to ensure that biological processes occur without being affected by undesired external influences. Over the years many scientists have designed self-assembled soft matter structures that mimic these natural catalytic compartments. The rationale behind this research is threefold. First of all, compartmentalization leads to the creation of a secluded environment for the catalytic species, which solves compatibility issues and which can improve catalyst efficiency and selectivity. Secondly, nano- and micro-compartments are constructed with the aim to obtain microenvironments that more closely mimic the cellular architecture. These biomimetic platforms are used to attain a better understanding of how cellular processes are executed. Thirdly, natural design rules are applied to create biomolecular assemblies with unusual functionality, which for example are used as artificial organelles. Here, recent developments will be discussed regarding these compartmentalized catalytic systems, with a selected number of illustrative examples to demonstrate which strategies have been followed, and to show to what extent the ambitious goals of this field of science have been reached. The focus here is on the field of soft matter science, covering the wide spectrum from polymeric assemblies to protein nanocages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Schoonen
- Radboud University, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525, AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jan C M van Hest
- Radboud University, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525, AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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21
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Abstract
Macromolecular self-assembly is attracting increasing scientific interest in polymer science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailong Che
- Radboud University
- Institute for Molecules and Materials
- Nijmegen
- The Netherlands
| | - Jan C. M. van Hest
- Radboud University
- Institute for Molecules and Materials
- Nijmegen
- The Netherlands
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22
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Tu Y, Peng F, Adawy A, Men Y, Abdelmohsen LKEA, Wilson DA. Mimicking the Cell: Bio-Inspired Functions of Supramolecular Assemblies. Chem Rev 2015; 116:2023-78. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.5b00344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yingfeng Tu
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Fei Peng
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alaa Adawy
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Yongjun Men
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Loai K. E. A. Abdelmohsen
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Daniela A. Wilson
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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23
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Gaitzsch J, Huang X, Voit B. Engineering Functional Polymer Capsules toward Smart Nanoreactors. Chem Rev 2015; 116:1053-93. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.5b00241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 300] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jens Gaitzsch
- Department
of Chemistry, University College London, London WC1H 0AJ, United Kingdom
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Basel, Klingelbergstrasse 80, 4056 Basel, Basel-Stadt, Switzerland
| | - Xin Huang
- School
of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, 150001 Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Brigitte Voit
- Leibniz-Institut fuer Polymerforschung Dresden e.V., Hohe Strasse 6, 01069 Dresden, Saxony, Germany
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24
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De Santis E, Ryadnov MG. Peptide self-assembly for nanomaterials: the old new kid on the block. Chem Soc Rev 2015; 44:8288-300. [PMID: 26272066 DOI: 10.1039/c5cs00470e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Peptide self-assembly is an increasingly attractive tool for nanomaterials. Perfected in biology peptide self-assembling systems have impacted on nearly any conceivable nanomaterial type. However, with all the information available to us commercialisation of peptide materials remains in its infancy. In an attempt to better understand the reasons behind this shortcoming we categorise peptide self-assembled materials in relation to their non-peptide counterparts. A particular emphasis is placed on the versatility of peptide self-assembly in terms of modularity, responsiveness and functional diversity, which enables direct comparisons with more traditional material chemistries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliana De Santis
- National Physical Laboratory, Hampton Road, Teddington, Middlesex, TW11 0LW, UK.
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25
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Kim MD, Dergunov SA, Pinkhassik E. Directed assembly of vesicle-templated polymer nanocapsules under near-physiological conditions. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2015; 31:2561-2568. [PMID: 25573426 DOI: 10.1021/la5046095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This work addresses the challenge of creating hollow polymer capsules with wall thickness in the single-nanometer range under mild conditions. We present a simple and scalable method for the synthesis of hollow polymer nanocapsules in the bilayers of spontaneously assembled surfactant vesicles. Polymerization is initiated thermally with the help of a peroxide initiator and an amine activator codissolved with monomers and cross-linkers in the hydrophobic interior of the surfactant bilayer. To avoid premature polymerization, the initiator and the activator were added separately to the mixtures of cetyltrimethylammonium tosylate (CTAT) and sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (SDBS) containing monomers and cross-linkers. Upon hydration and mixing of the aqueous solutions, equilibrium monomer-loaded vesicles formed spontaneously after a brief incubation. The removal of oxygen and further incubation at slightly elevated temperatures (35-40 °C) for 1 to 2 h has led to the formation of hollow polymer nanocapsules. Structural and permeability characterization supported the high yield of nanocapsules with no pinhole defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya D Kim
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut , 55 North Eagleville Road, Storrs, Connecticut 06269-3060, United States
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26
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Wallace M, Cardoso AZ, Frith WJ, Iggo JA, Adams DJ. Magnetically aligned supramolecular hydrogels. Chemistry 2014; 20:16484-7. [PMID: 25345918 PMCID: PMC4497324 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201405500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The magnetic-field-induced alignment of the fibrillar structures present in an aqueous solution of a dipeptide gelator, and the subsequent retention of this alignment upon transformation to a hydrogel upon the addition of CaCl2 or upon a reduction in solution pH is reported. Utilising the switchable nature of the magnetic field coupled with the slow diffusion of CaCl2 , it is possible to precisely control the extent of anisotropy across a hydrogel, something that is generally very difficult to do using alternative methods. The approach is readily extended to other compounds that form viscous solutions at high pH. It is expected that this work will greatly expand the utility of such low-molecular-weight gelators (LMWG) in areas where alignment is key.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Wallace
- Department of Chemistry, University of LiverpoolCrown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZD (UK)
| | - Andre Zamith Cardoso
- Department of Chemistry, University of LiverpoolCrown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZD (UK)
| | - William J Frith
- Unilever R&D Colworth, Colworth Science ParkSharnbrook, Bedfordshire, MK44 1 LQ (UK)
| | - Jonathan A Iggo
- Department of Chemistry, University of LiverpoolCrown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZD (UK)
| | - Dave J Adams
- Department of Chemistry, University of LiverpoolCrown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZD (UK)
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27
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van Rhee P, Rikken R, Abdelmohsen L, Maan J, Nolte R, van Hest J, Christianen P, Wilson D. Polymersome magneto-valves for reversible capture and release of nanoparticles. Nat Commun 2014; 5:5010. [PMID: 25248402 PMCID: PMC4176683 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Stomatocytes are polymersomes with an infolded bowl-shaped architecture. This internal cavity is connected to the outside environment via a small 'mouth' region. Stomatocytes are assembled from diamagnetic amphiphilic block-copolymers with a highly anisotropic magnetic susceptibility, which permits to magnetically align and deform the polymeric self-assemblies. Here we show the reversible opening and closing of the mouth region of stomatocytes in homogeneous magnetic fields. The control over the size of the opening yields magneto-responsive supramolecular valves that are able to reversibly capture and release cargo. Furthermore, the increase in the size of the opening is gradual and starts at fields below 10 T, which opens the possibility of using these structures for delivery and nanoreactor applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- P.G. van Rhee
- High Field Magnet Laboratory, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - R.S.M. Rikken
- High Field Magnet Laboratory, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - L.K.E.A. Abdelmohsen
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J.C. Maan
- High Field Magnet Laboratory, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - R.J.M. Nolte
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - J.C.M. van Hest
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - P.C.M. Christianen
- High Field Magnet Laboratory, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Toernooiveld 7, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - D.A. Wilson
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, Heyendaalseweg 135, 6525 AJ Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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28
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Chang HY, Sheng YJ, Tsao HK. Structural and mechanical characteristics of polymersomes. SOFT MATTER 2014; 10:6373-6381. [PMID: 25062328 DOI: 10.1039/c4sm01092b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Polymersomes self-assembled from amphiphilic macromolecules have attracted growing attention because of their multifunctionality and stability. By controlling the structural characteristics of polymersomes, including vesicle shape, size, and membrane thickness, their mechanical and transport properties as well as their fusion behavior can be manipulated. Numerous experimental techniques have been developed to explore polymersome characteristics; however, experimental microscopic observations and knowledge of vesicles are limited. Mesoscale simulations can complement experimental studies of the vesicular features at the microscopic level and thus provide a feasible method to better understand the relationship between the fundamental structures and physicochemical properties of polymersomes. Moreover, the predictive ability of the simulation approaches may greatly assist developments and future applications of polymersomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Yu Chang
- National Taiwan University, Chemical Engineering, Taipei 106, Taiwan
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