Biocompatible polycarbonate nanoparticles: new approaches for medical applications

Two-dimensional (2D) nanoparticles are becoming increasingly important, particularly in areas such as catalysis, optoelectronics and biomedicine. However, the targeted control of particle size and surface chemistry remains a challenge. An international research team has now developed a new strategy for producing nanoparticles with defined properties by ‘living’ crystallization-driven self-assembly (CDSA).

The researchers focused on aliphatic polycarbonates, which are known to be a biocompatible class of materials. In particular, poly(dimethyltrimethylene carbonate) (PDTC) was investigated as a core material that, through the introduction of side chains, enables improved crystallinity and thus controlled self-assembly.

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Versatile structures for medical applications

This process was used to create highly precise nanoparticles with a segmented chemical structure. These particles are characterised by a high colloidal stability in aqueous solutions, which facilitates their use in biomedicine. A comprehensive study of biocompatibility showed that PDTC nanoparticles exhibit no detectable cytotoxicity towards healthy and cancerous cell lines.

These findings could pave the way for innovative medical applications, including targeted drug delivery and biocompatible carrier systems. The research thus makes an important contribution to the development of new materials for nanomedicine.

Source: Polymer Chemistry, Volume 21

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