Supramolecular assemblies of block copolymers in aqueous media as nanocontainers relevant to biological applications

Multimolecular assemblies of block copolymers have received considerable attention from both fundamental and applied standpoints. These assemblies are formed in selective solvents based on the different solubilities of constitutent segments; for example, hydrophilic and hydrophobic segments in an aqueous medium. Although the assemblies may assume various morphologies, including spherical, rod and lamellar structures, spherical micelles have been most extensively investigated. Polymeric micelles have a fairly narrow size distribution and are characterized by their unique core-corona structure. Their physicochemical properties have been extensively studied and higher-order controlled association has also been attained. This review highlights the recent progress in physicochemical characterization of the polymeric micelles and their applications as functional materials. Particular focus is placed on their applications in drug delivery systems, capillary electrophoresis and surface modification. Further, novel polymeric micelle formation through electrostatic interaction in aqueous medium is reviewed from the standpoint of their utility as bioreactors, diagnostic tools and non-viral gene vectors. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.