PROJECT SUMMARY :

      The ability of some amphiphilic block copolymers to self-organize in aqueous media is a nowadays approach to development of new materials of high complexity, with unique properties and numerous practical applications.
      The aim of the project is to synthesize amphiphilic block copolymers  with chemical structures controlled by synthesis, from polysaccharides (dextran, pullulan) as hydrophilic blocks and biodegradable polyesters of bile acids (cholic, deoxycholic or litocolic acids) as hydrophobic blocks.
      Double hydrophilic block copolymers of polysaccharides and poly(isopropylacrylamide) with capacity to self-assembly only above their low critical solution temperature will also be prepared. The polymer characterisitics (nature and length of the blocks) and medium properties (solvent composition, pH, temperature, ionic strength) determining the occurrence of nano-sized organized structures (micelles and/or vesicles) and their properties (size, shape, morphology, stability, encapsulation ability for hydrophobic or hydrophilic compounds) will be preponderantly followed.
      In order to improve their properties and suitability as devices for temporal and spatial control of drugs, the obtained nanoparticle will be further functionalized by crosslinking, modification with ionic or hydrophobic groups, and attachment of targeting moieties (folic acid). Single and double-drug encapsulation and release ability, biocompatibility and interaction with specific cells will be also examined.