Dextran based amphiphilic self-assembled biopolymeric macromolecule synthesized via RAFT polymerization as indomethacin carrier

ABSTR A C T This work demonstrates a facile pathway to develop a biopolymer based amphiphilic macromolecule through re-versible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, using dextran (a biopolymer) as starting material. Also, a new hydrophobic monomer [2-methyl-acrylic acid 1-benzyl-1H-[1,2,3] triazol-4-ylmethyl ester (MABTE)] has been synthesized using methacrylic acid via click approach. The resultant copolymer displays controlled radical polymerization characteristics: narrow polydispersity ( ETH ) and controlled molecular weight as obtained through advanced polymer chromatography (APC) analysis. In aqueous solution, the copolymer can proficiently be self-assembled to provide micellar structure, which has been evidenced from field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses. The in-vitro cyto-toxicity study illustrates the nontoxic nature of the copolymer up to 100 mu g/mL polymer concentration. The co -polymer has been found to be worthy as an efficient carrier for the sustained release of hydrophobic drug: Indomethacin (IND). (c) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates a facile pathway to develop a biopolymer-based amphiphilic macromolecule through RAFT polymerization and click synthesis, showing controlled radical polymerization characteristics and the ability to self-assemble into micellar structures in aqueous solution. The copolymer was found to be non-toxic up to a concentration of 100 μg/mL and efficient in sustained release of the hydrophobic drug Indomethacin.