Light and reductive dual stimuli-responsive PEI nanoparticles: “AND” logic response and controllable release
Abstract
“AND” logic responsive polyetherimide (PEI)-based polymers PENS were constituted by attaching the photoresponsive o-nitrobenzyl phototrigger and reductive responsive disulfide linker to the polymer PEI. This dual-responsive system maintained micelle-like assembly upon single photo or reductive stimuli. The disassembly only occurred when photo and reductive signals were input at the same time. This smart system was therefore applied as a carrier for the controlled release of the anti-cancer drug doxorubicin (DOX), which exhibited effective release only when UV irradiation and GSH reduction were applied simultaneously.