| abstract |
Core-shell particles have a hydrophobic core and a shell formed of or containing hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG). The HPG can be covalently bound to the one or more materials that form the core or coated thereon. The HPG coating can be modified to adjust the properties of the particles. For example, unmodified HPG coatings impart stealth properties to the particles which resist non-specific protein absorption. Alternatively, the hydroxyl groups on the HPG coating can be chemically modified to form functional groups that react with functional groups on tissue or otherwise interact with tissue to adhere the particles to the tissue, cells, or extracellular materials, such as proteins. Such functional groups include, but not limited to, aldehydes, amines, and O-substituted oximes. Topical formulation for application to the skin contain these HPG coated nanoparticles. In some embodiments, the particles include therapeutic, diagnostic, nutraceutical, and/or prophylactic agents such as those used as sunblock compositions. |