Dual stimuli-responsive biotinylated polymer–drug conjugate for dual drug delivery

Abstract

physical encapsulation (DP2@DOX). The ROS and esterase trigger not only released the covalently stitched CBL but also resulted in DOX release by dismantling the amphiphilic balance of the nanoaggregates. Biotinylation-mediated enhancement of cellular uptake of DP2@DOX was reflected in the synergistic anticancer activity of both the drugs (CBL and DOX) in HeLa cells (biotin receptor-positive cells) compared to HEK 293T cells (biotin receptor-negative cells). Furthermore, the selective internalization of the fluorophore-tagged DOX-loaded polymer (DP4@DOX) in HeLa cells compared to HEK 293T cells was confirmed by confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. In summary, the present investigation demonstrates a state-of-the-art self-assembled polymer-drug conjugate as a next-generation dual stimuli-responsive drug delivery vehicle.