Here, we demonstrate that the spatial distribution of lipophilic cations governs the complexation pathways, serum stability, and biological performance of polymer-pDNA complexes (polyplexes). Previous research focused on block/statistical copolymers, whereas gradient copolymers, where the density of lipophilic cations diminishes (gradually or steeply) along polymer backbones, remain underexplored. We engineered gradient copolymers that combine the polyplex colloidal stability of block copolymers with the transfection efficiency of statistical copolymers.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFNanocarriers for drugs have been investigated for decades, yet it is still challenging to achieve sustained release from nanomaterials due to drug loading inefficiency and burst release. In this study, we developed novel functional carbon dots (CDs) and investigated the therapeutic efficacy by studying the loading efficiency and release behavior of the anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX). CDs were successfully synthesized using a one-step pyrolysis method with varying concentrations of citric acid (CA) and thiourea (TU).
View Article and Find Full Text PDFPolycations are scalable and affordable nanocarriers for delivering therapeutic nucleic acids. Yet, cationicity-dependent tradeoffs between nucleic acid delivery efficiency, cytotoxicity, and serum stability hinder clinical translation. Typically, the most efficient polycationic vehicles also tend to be the most toxic.
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