Dissertation
Multifunctional polypept(o)ide miktoarm star polymers for advanced drug delivery: from the development of versatile synthetic strategies for PeptoMiktoStars to the precise tailoring of nanoparticle properties
With an emphasis on developing novel miktoarm star polymers termed PeptoMiktoStars, this thesis leverages asymmetric polymeric polypept(o)ide frameworks to advance their effectiveness in delivering hydrophobic drugs and nucleic acids.
- Author
- D.T. Schwiertz
- Date
- 06 February 2025
- Links
- Thesis in Leiden Repository
For this purpose, multiple synthetic pathways have been designed utilizing controlled living polymerization techniques paired with cutting-edge multivalent initiators and orthogonal protecting group strategies, offering flexibility in modifying both the functional core and hydrophilic polymer corona. Precise control over the size and additional physicochemical properties of the resulting core-shell nanoparticles is facilitated by finely adjusting the desired molecular weights, different degrees of branching, and chemical nature of the respective polymer arms. The insights gained from this research could propel forward the promising class of miktoarm star polymers by showcasing their superiority over linear alternatives in confronting therapeutic hurdles.