1 research outputs found
Single UV or Near IR Triggering Event Leads to Polymer Degradation into Small Molecules
We report two polymers with UV- and NIR-removable end-caps
that
respond to a single light activated event by complete cleavage of
the polymer backbone via a self-immolative mechanism. Two photocleavable
protecting groups were used to cap the polymers; <i>o</i>-nitrobenzyl alcohol (ONB) and bromo-coumarin (Bhc). GPC and <sup>1</sup>H NMR confirmed complete degradation of the ONB-containing
polymer in response to UV. The polymers were formulated into nanoparticles;
fluorescence measurements of encapsulated Nile red confirmed release
upon photolysis of the end-caps. Contrary to previous work using a
similar backbone structure that degrades upon hydrolysis, here, the
disassembly process and burst release of the payload are only activated
on demand, illustrating the powerful capacity of light to trigger
release from polymeric nanoparticles. Our design allows the signal
to be amplified in a domino effect to fully degrade the polymer into
small molecules. Thus, polymers and nanoparticles can reach maximal
degradation without having to use intense or long periods of irradiation