Ph-Responsive Nanogels from Bioinspired Comb-Like Polymers with Hydrophobic Grafts for Effective Oral Delivery
October 2025
in “
Gels
”
Studysummary This study demonstrates that pH-responsive nanogels designed with comb-like anionic polymers significantly improved oral delivery of the chemotherapy drug camptothecin, enhancing drug stability in acidic conditions and release in the intestines, with increased cellular uptake and cytotoxic effects against colorectal carcinoma cells.
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The study focuses on developing pH-responsive nanogels using bioinspired comb-like polymers with hydrophobic grafts for effective oral drug delivery. These nanogels are designed to protect drugs like camptothecin from degradation in acidic gastric conditions and enable rapid release in the neutral intestine. The optimal formulation, PLP-TDA 30% nanogel, demonstrated high drug-loading capacity, stability, and enhanced cellular uptake. The research highlights that longer hydrophobic side chains and higher grafting densities improve membrane interaction and drug encapsulation efficiency. The HCPT-loaded nanogels showed a twofold increase in cytotoxicity against colorectal cancer cells compared to free HCPT, indicating improved bioavailability and potential for targeted intestinal delivery.
