| abstract |
The present invention relates to the field of polymer chemistry, and more particularly to multi-block copolymers and micelles containing the same. The application is “smart” that is stable to dilution in the circulation, can accumulate more effectively in diseased cells, and can dissociate in response to a range of environmental changes normally found in diseased tissues and cells. Describes the design and synthesis of drug-loaded polymer micelles. In certain embodiments, the present invention effectively encapsulates a hydrophobic or ionic therapeutic agent at pH 7.4 (blood), but between 5.0 (endosomal pH) and 6.8 (extracellular tumor pH). Cross-linked micelles are provided that dissociate and release drugs at a range of targeted acidic pH values. |