A Supramolecular Chitosan Complex Drug Delivery Platform

Background

Since 1991, copolymers that form well-defined micelles in aqueous media have been studied and research has shown that these copolymers can trap water‑insoluble substances in their hydrophobic interior. Further studies revolving around polyaromatic hydrocarbons showed that the encapsulation of substances such as fluorescent biomarkers, drugs, and/or oligopeptides in the hydrophobic interior of micelles was successful. Even though major advances have been made with copolymers since 1991, there is a need for a copolymer micelle having a multi‑functional nano‑structure to provide a platform for early diagnosis and drug delivery.

Technology

This technology revolves around a supramolecular chitosan complex system with a hydrophilic shell made of a linear aliphatic poly(ether) polymer and a chitosan hydrophobic core. The core is composed of a plurality of branched poly(benzyl ether) polymers. The poly(benzyl ether) polymers can be perfectly branched in some systems. In one embodiment, the core is composed of at least one chitosan nanoparticle that is anchored by at least one linear dendritic co‑polymer. The chitosan is covalently modified, and the core is further comprised of an unattached compound which includes (but is not limited to) a drug, cell marker, or biosensor. The hydrophilic polymer shell has a targeting agent that has avidin and a streptavidin‑conjugated antibody. The streptavidin‑conjugated antibody has a specific affinity for a disease biomarker which includes, but is not limited to, a protein, peptide, polypeptide, or nucleic acid sequence. This method and technology were used on a patient with metastatic cancer and doxorubicin, ansamitocin‑P3, or paclitaxel was used as the drug being delivered. It is an intracellular delivery.

Advantages

Early diagnosis can be achieved with the use of biomarkers and this technology - More accurate drug delivery can be established - This system and method are multi‑functional due to its nanostructure.

Application

Accurate drug delivery for a variety of health complications - Biosensors and targeting agents implement a method for earlier diagnosis of various diseases/conditions