Multistimuli responsive polymeric nanosystems for theranostic applications

This article describes the synthesis, and characterization of two novel multistimuli responsive polymeric nanosystems for theranostic applications. For this purpose, the poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-itaconic anhydride) [P(NIPAAm-co-IA)] copolymer was synthesized by a free radical initiated polymerization method, and subsequently a macrobranched terpolymer was synthesized by partial esterification of P(NIPAAm-co-IA) copolymer with monomethoxy poly(ethylene glycol) [PNIPAAm-co-(PIA-g-PEG)]. This terpolymer with carboxylic functional groups adsorbed onto the surface of Fe3O4 nanoparticles (MNHG (1)). In another experimental process the PEG end-capped itaconat macromonomer (PEGIAM) was adsorbed onto the surface of Fe3O4 nanoparticles, and then copolymerized with NIPAAm via a free radical initiated polymerization technique (MNHG (2)). The chemical structures of all samples as representatives were characterized by means of FTIR and H-1 NMR spectroscopies. The LCST, morphologies, elemental compositions, and magnetic properties of the synthesized MNHGs were examined. The potential cytotoxic effects of the MNHGs were evaluated by MTT assay. According to the results, we envision that the synthesized MNHGs may be find theranostic applications, in part due to their smart physicochemical properties.