Amphiphilic Scorpion-like Macromolecules as Micellar Nanocarriers

Amphiphilic scorpion-like macromolecules (AScMs), that self-assemble as nanocarriers, were evaluated for intracellular delivery. To qualitatively examine the intracellular fate of AScMs in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), representative polymers (M12P5) were labeled with a fluorescent dye, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). The FITC-labeled M12P5 micelles were prepared by mixing a low concentration of FITC-labeled M12P5 polymer (10 wt%) with unlabeled M12P5 polymer (90 wt%). Optical sectioning by confocal laser scanning microscopy of HUVECs incubated with FITC-labeled polymer micelles revealed that the polymers were localized in subcellular components within 60 min. Transmission electron microscopy was used to highlight the rapid accumulation of a polymer-encapsulated agent in the nucleus by 60 min. This study demonstrated that the M12P5 polymers were internalized into HUVECs. Based on these data, the polymeric nanocarriers are potential candidates for intracytoplasmic and nuclear delivery of drugs, proteins and/or genes.