“AND” logic gate regulated pH and reduction dual-responsive prodrug nanoparticles for efficient intracellular anticancer drug delivery

Abstract

A dual-responsive drug delivery system simulating an AND logic gate is developed by core-cross-linking of a disulfide-containing anticancer prodrug with Cu²⁺ for safe and efficient delivery of anticancer drugs. These prodrug nanoparticles are stable and exhibit nearly no premature drug release, and allow a fast drug release under simulated intracellular conditions, realizing a precise drug delivery towards cell nuclei.