Structural modifications in polymeric micelles to impart multifunctionality for improved drug delivery

Abstract

Polymeric micelles are macromolecular nanoconstructs which are formed by self-assembly of synthetic amphiphilic block copolymers. These copolymers could be chemically modified to expand their functionality and hence obtain a multifunctional micelle which could serve several functions simultaneously, for example, long circulation time along with active targeting, smart polymeric micelles providing on-demand drug release for example, pH responsive micelles, redox- and light-sensitive micelles, charge-conversion micelles and core/shell cross-linked micelles. Additionally, micelles could be tailored to carry a contrast agent or siRNA/miRNA along with the drug for greater clinical benefit. The focus of the current commentary would be to highlight such chemical modifications which impart multifunctionality to a single carrier and discuss challenges involved in clinical translation of these multifunctional micelles.