Effect of Environmental Factors on Hydrolytic Degradation of Water-Soluble Polyphosphazene Polyelectrolyte in Aqueous Solutions

Degradation of a water-soluble polyphosphazene, poly[di(carboxylatophenoxy)phosphazene], disodium salt (PCPP) has been studied in aqueous solutions at elevated temperature. This synthetic polyelectrolyte is of interest as vaccine adjuvant and its degradability constitutes an important component of its safety and formulation stability profiles. The degradation process is manifested by a gradual reduction in the molecular weight of the polymer and cleavage of side groups, which is consistent with previously reported data on hydrolytical breakdown of water-soluble polyphosphazenes. The kinetics of hydrolytical degradation exhibits distinct pH dependence and the process is faster in solutions with lower pH. Remarkably, a number of hydrogen bond forming additives, such as polyethylene glycol and Tween displayed a dramatic accelerating effect on the degradation of PCPP, whereas inorganic salts, such as sodium chloride and potassium chloride, showed a trend for its retardation. The results can be potentially explained on the basis of acid promoted hydrolysis mechanism and macromolecular interactions in the system.