Amphiphilic block copolymer micelles for nanoscale drug delivery

Amphiphilic block copolymers can assemble into supramolecular core-shell structures, termed ABC micelles, that have proven utility in drug delivery, particularly for drug solubilization. Several examples have entered clinical trials, attesting to the biocompatibility of ABCs and the potential advantages for drug delivery, e.g., low toxicity relative to Cremophor (R) EL, a surfactant commonly used for drug solubilization. Several examples of ABC micelles demonstrate potential for prolonged circulation in blood. Coupled with novel strategies toward controlled release of drug, nanoscale ABC micelles have tremendous potential for the targeting of antitumor agents, many of which are poorly water soluble and possess dose-limiting toxicity.