Synthesis, Characterization and Application of Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) with a Mass Ratio of Lactic to Glycolic Segments of 52/48

Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)(PLGA) is one of the most representative degradable copolymers and promising drug carriers. In the current paper, the PLGAs with a lactic acid/ glycolic acid(LA/GA) molar ratio of 52/48 and various molecular weights were prepared by a melting method. The molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, and thermal stability were determined by H-1 NMR and thermogravimetric analysis methods. The results demonstrated that PLGAs with the fixed LA/GA molar ratio(52/48), different molecular weights, and narrow molecular weight distribution could be obtained by solely altering the reaction time. The PLGA films were prepared, and their properties including micro-structure, mechanical property, in-vitro cytotoxicity, and biodegradability were characterized. In combination with the homogeneous microstructures and mechanical properties, the drugloading and releasing properties of PLGA(3.2) films were investigated. The results show that PLGA(3.2) film with an LA/GA molar ratio of 52/48 is a promising curcumin carrier.