Abstract
We report on enzyme-responsive hydrogel particles for the controlled release of proteins. Amino-functionalised poly(ethylene glycol acrylamide) (PEGA) hydrogel particles were functionalised with peptide actuators that cause charge-induced swelling and payload release when triggered enzymatically. Peptide-based actuators were designed to match the specificity of the target enzyme, while also matching the charge properties of the to-be released protein payload, thereby uniquely allowing for tuneable release profiles. Fluorescently labelled albumin and avidin, proteins of similar size but opposite charge, were released at a rate that was governed by the peptide actuator linked to the polymer carrier, offering a highly controlled release mechanism. Release profiles were analysed using a combination of fluorescence spectroscopy of the solution and two-photon fluorescence microscopy to analyse enzymatically triggered molecular events within hydrogel particles during the initial stages of release. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 821-827 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Soft Matter |
Volume | 4 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2008 |
Keywords
- POLYMER THERAPEUTICS
- SMART BIOMATERIALS
- DRUG-DELIVERY
- MICROSCOPY
- COPOLYMER
- LIBRARIES
- SUPPORTS
- PRODRUGS
- CARRIERS
- SCIENCE