Dual redox-responsive PEG–PPS–cRGD self-crosslinked nanocapsules for targeted chemotherapy of squamous cell carcinoma

Abstract

Polymer nanogels/nanocapsules with encapsulation stability, stimuli responsiveness and tumor targeting have emerged as one of the most remarkable carriers for anticancer drug delivery. In this work, we design a multifunctional, four-armed, branched copolymer, PEG–PPS–cRGD, and use it to develop a dual redox-responsive and α_vβ₃ integrin-targeting nanocapsule via a simple and straightforward self-crosslinking strategy through the disulfide exchange reaction between the polymer arms. The dissolution rate studies illustrate that the PEG–PPS–cRGD nanocapsules had robust drug release profiles under both oxidation and reduction conditions. The in vitro and in vivo investigations demonstrate that the nanocapsules exhibited precise tumor targeting, outstanding antitumor effect and excellent biological safety in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma. Therefore, this work provides a promising drug delivery platform for cancer therapy and other applications.