A glucose-sensitive multilayer film was fabricated by the layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly method with positively charged 21-arm poly[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate] (star PDMAEMA) and negatively charged insulin and glucose oxidase (GOD) in the form of ((Star PDMAEMA/Insulin)(4) + (Star PDMAEMA/GOD)(4) + Star PDMAEMA). The multilayer film shows an on-off regulation of insulin release in response to stepwise glucose challenge in vitro. It is found that the unique structure of star PDMAEMA and inter-diffusion of charged insulin are the main factors to control the on-off status of the film. Reversible surface morphology transitions of the multilayer film were also observed, revealing a phase separation and large-scale reorganization process. Furthermore, the multilayer film could continuously release enough insulin in vivo after being subcutaneously implanted in streptocozotin-induced diabetic rats and reduce the blood glucose level for at least two weeks. It is indicated that such system may have substantial potential as a glucose-sensitive carrier for insulin due to its distinct mechanism. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.