Dual-responsive star-shaped polypeptides for drug delivery

Core cross-linked star-shaped polypeptides based on poly(L-glutamic acid)-poly(L-phenylalanine-co-L-cystine) copolymer have been successfully synthesized and thoroughly characterized. The star polypeptides can self-assemble to form 50 nm micelles in aqueous medium, which respond rapidly to both pH change within the physiologically relevant pH range and a reduction environment mimicking the intracellular space. Water-soluble doxorubicin hydrochloride and hydrophobic resveratrol are loaded into the star polypeptides micelles through electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions respectively. The drug loading content can be controlled by tuning the composition of the star polypeptides. The in vitro release studies indicate dual sensitivity enabled rapid drug release at pH 5.5 and 10 mM dithiothreitol (DTT), mimicking the intracellular environment. Furthermore, the star polypeptides are biocompatible and interact well with cells in vitro. Confocal fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry assays show these star polypeptides can be quickly internalized and effectively deliver the drugs into HeLa cells to inhibit cell growth.