Photo, pH, and thermo triple-responsive spiropyran-based copolymer nanoparticles for controlled release

Abstract

A spiropyran-based amphiphilic random copolymer was synthesized and self-assembled into photo-, pH-, and thermo-responsive micellar nanoparticles. The triple-stimuli triggered morphological changes of the nanoparticles were revealed by TEM and DLS. Highly efficient controlled release of encapsulated molecules, coumarin 102, from the nanoparticles under stimulation of UV light, acid and the combined stimuli could be realized.