Self-assembled supramolecular hydrogels based on polymer-cyclodextrin inclusion complexes for drug delivery

The supramolecular self-assembly of cyclodextrins (CDs) and polymers has led to the development of novel supramolecular hydrogels for drug delivery applications. Many different supramolecular hydrogels have been formed between CDs and poly(ethylene oxide) or its copolymers, and the reversible thixotropism of these hydrogels makes them particularly suitable for delivery by syringe injection. For the long-term controlled release of drugs, supramolecular hydrogels with better controlled-release properties can be realized by assembling alpha-CD with various triblock copolymers bearing a hydrophobic block. The intermolecular interactions induced by the presence of hydrophobic blocks strengthen the molecular network and stabilizes the resultant hydrogel. The development of supramolecular hydrogels based on inclusion complexation between CDs and polymers opens up a new approach for designing novel drug delivery systems.