Recent progress of redox-responsive polymeric nanomaterials for controlled release.

Redox-responsive polymeric nanomaterials (PNMs) have been attractive research targets for drug delivery systems because disturbed levels of redox molecules are associated with the progression of various diseases. To enable PNMs to target biorelevant redox molecules, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), appropriate responsive moieties have to be installed within the polymer structure. Upon application of redox stimuli, redox-responsive PNMs undergo structural changes to release encapsulated payloads.

Highly responsive and rapid hydrogen peroxide-triggered degradation of polycaprolactone nanoparticles.

We synthesized an oxidation-responsive polycaprolactone (O-PCL) bearing pendant arylboronic esters as H2O2-responsive motifs. H2O2 induces fast depolymerization of O-PCL within days. Nanoparticles formulated from O-PCL disintegrate and release payload in response to concentrations of H2O2 (50 μM) that are relevant to human disease.

A Bioelectronic Platform Modulates pH in Biologically Relevant Conditions.

Bioelectronic devices that modulate pH can affect critical biological processes including enzymatic activity, oxidative phosphorylation, and neuronal excitability. A major challenge in controlling pH is the high buffering capacity of many biological media. To overcome this challenge, devices need to be able to store and deliver a large number of protons on demand.

Acylguanidine derivatives of zanamivir and oseltamivir: Potential orally available prodrugs against influenza viruses.

Zanamivir (ZA) and guanidino-oseltamivir carboxylic acid (GOC) are very potent inhibitors against influenza neuraminidase (NA). The guanidinium moiety plays an important role in NA binding; however, its polar cationic nature also hinders the use of ZA and GOC from oral administration. In this study, we investigated the use of ZA and GOC acylguanidine derivatives as possible orally available prodrugs.