Polyion complex micelles with reactive aldehyde groups on their surface from plasmid DNA and end-functionalized charged blocks copolymers

A novel group of polymer micelles with an aldehyde functionality in aqueous medium called polyion complex (PIC) micelles or block ionomer complexes was formed through electrostatic interaction of an oppositely charged pair of block copolymers, α-acetalpoly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(2-(N,N-dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) with various polyelectrolytes of synthetic and natural origin. PIC micelles show unique physicochemical properties including an extremely narrow-sized distribution with core-shell architecture. The resistance of plasmid DNA against nuclease digestion remarkably increased by its incorporation into the core of the PIC micelles. These PIC micelles entrapping bioactive molecules can be used in drug delivery for treatment of cancer.