Stimuli-Sensitive Polymeric Micelles as Anticancer Drug Carriers

Title: Stimuli-Sensitive Polymeric Micelles as Anticancer Drug Carriers

Volume: 6 Issue: 6

Author(s): Kun Na, Vijay T. Sethuraman, You Han Bae and Vijay A. Sethuraman

Affiliation:

Keywords: Micelles, self-organization, stimuli-sensitive, hyperthermic conditions, tumor pH, endosomal/lysosomal pH

Abstract: Amphiphilic block copolymers often form core-shell type micelles by self-organization of the blocks in an aqueous medium or under specific experimental conditions. Polymeric micelles constructed from these polymers that contain a segment whose physical or chemical properties respond to small changes in environmental conditions are collectively called ‘stimuli-sensitive ’ micelles. This class of nano-scaled constructs has been investigated as a promising anticancer drug carrier because the micelles are able to utilize small environmental changes and modify drug release kinetics, biodistribution and the interactions with tissues and cells. This review summarizes the recent progress in stimuli-sensitive micelles for tumor chemotherapy, particularly for those responding to hyperthermic conditions, tumor pH and endosomal/ lysosomal pH.

Cite this article as:

Na Kun, Sethuraman T. Vijay, Han Bae You and Sethuraman A. Vijay, Stimuli-Sensitive Polymeric Micelles as Anticancer Drug Carriers, Anti-Cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry 2006; 6 (6) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/187152006778699068