Self-assembly of block copolymers for biological applications

Self-assembly of block copolymers (BCPs) has garnered much attention over the past several decades owing to an array of intriguing properties. In this perspective, recent advances in self-assembly and applications of BCPs with different architectures are presented. First, the self-assembly mechanism of BCPs and the general criteria to evaluate the assembled morphologies are introduced. Subsequently, the self-assembly of linear, star-like and bottlebrush-like BCPs is discussed. In particular, polymerization-induced self-assembly for large-scale preparation is highlighted. Afterwards, a rich diversity of applications of self-assembled BCPs in drug delivery, bioimaging, molecular recognition and photothermal therapy are outlined. Finally, an outlook on larger-scale production and implementation of self-assembled BCPs for biological applications is noted. (c) 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.