Synthesis and Characterization Gold Nanoparticles using polymeric micelles to Induce Block Copolymer Composition

Ikram Ullah Khan ^1*

This study showed cost-effective methods for synthesizing gold nanoparticles using polymeric micelles, enhancing their potential for biomedical applications.

Abstract

Background: Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) have shown significant potential in biomedicine, particularly for applications in photothermal therapy and drug delivery. Conventional AuNP synthesis methods are often complex and involve multiple steps, driving interest in simpler, cost-effective alternatives. This study explores a novel approach using amine-containing polymeric micelles for the synthesis of AuNPs, aiming to streamline the process and enable precise control over nanoparticle properties. Methods: Seven block copolymers were synthesized via group transfer polymerization (GTP), including poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (PEGMA), 2-(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DEAEMA), and propargyl methacrylate (PMA). These copolymers varied in composition and architecture to investigate their self-assembly behavior and potential for AuNP formation. The structural properties were characterized using gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) spectroscopy. Solution properties, such as pKa values, cloud points, and hydrodynamic diameters, were assessed using potentiometric titration, visual tests, and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Results: All synthesized polymers successfully formed micelles, with polymer 2 (PEGMA12-b-DEAEMA26-b-PEGMA12-b-PMA2) showing optimal properties for AuNP formation at pH 7 and 8. Ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis) and DLS analyses confirmed AuNP synthesis, with particle size varying depending on the pH. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the feasibility of using amine-containing polymeric micelles to synthesize AuNPs in a cost-effective manner. The results highlight the potential for optimizing polymer composition and architecture to tailor micellar behavior and AuNP properties, providing a promising approach for future biomedical applications.

Keywords: Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), Polymeric micelles, Block copolymers, Group transfer polymerization (GTP), Biomedical applications

References

Brown, K. A., & White, R. (2015). Properties and applications of block copolymer micelles. Chemical Reviews, 115(5), 1461-1480.

Deng, Y., Wu, X., & Li, L. (2016). Self-assembly of block copolymers and its applications. Polymer Chemistry, 7(9), 2082-2095.

Gupta, V., & Singh, P. (2015). Block copolymer micelles for drug delivery: A review. Polymer Reviews, 55(4), 515-550.

Hao, L., & Chen, Y. (2015). Effects of pH on the stability of nanoparticle formulations. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 487, 201-208.

Huang, J., & Zhang, X. (2014). Synthesis and characterization of gold nanoparticles for biomedical applications. Materials Science and Engineering: C, 44, 204-213.

Jin, Y., & Zhang, J. (2018). Advances in functional nanoparticles for biomedical applications. Nanotechnology Reviews, 7(6), 877-898.

Kang, S., & Lee, S. (2017). Micellar systems for drug delivery: Advances and challenges. Pharmaceutical Research, 34(9), 1905-1920.

Kim, J., & Lee, H. (2014). Synthesis and characterization of block copolymer micelles. Macromolecules, 47(8), 2815-2823.

Kumar, S., & Mehta, A. (2019). Biodegradable polymers for drug delivery systems. Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part A, 107(5), 931-941.

Kumar, S., Patil, R., & Deshmukh, K. (2017). Thermoresponsive polymers for controlled release systems. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 134(10), 44768.

Kumari, A., & Sharma, S. (2015). Characterization and applications of block copolymer micelles. Journal of Nanomaterials, 2015, 851527.

Lee, S. H., & Lee, H. (2012). Gold nanoparticle-based sensors for biomedical applications. Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, 174, 49-55.

Li, L., & Wang, Y. (2016). Nanoparticles for controlled release: Recent advances and future prospects. Journal of Controlled Release, 236, 1-16.

Liu, R., & Tang, Z. (2016). Functionalization of nanoparticles for biomedical applications. Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, 16(3), 2759-2766.

Mitsukami, S. (2015). Functionalization of biodegradable polyesters with controlled architecture. Macromolecular Rapid Communications, 36(8), 759-764.

Park, J., & Choi, Y. (2018). Gold nanoparticles for drug delivery: From synthesis to biomedical applications. Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology, Biology, and Medicine, 14(4), 867-880.

Smith, A. M., & Nie, S. (2004). Nanoparticle-based therapeutics. Current Opinion in Biotechnology, 15(3), 260-268.

Sun, Y., & Zhang, L. (2019). Biocompatibility of gold nanoparticles: A review. Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 17(1), 72.

Wang, H., & Sun, Y. (2020). Functionalization of nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery. Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, 155, 50-65.

Wang, Y., & Chen, W. (2018). Gold nanoparticles in drug delivery and imaging: Recent advances. Chemical Society Reviews, 47(24), 9780-9808.

Wang, Y., & Wang, J. (2019). Block copolymer micelles for drug delivery applications. Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, 140, 26-41.

Wu, X., & Li, J. (2018). Temperature-responsive block copolymer micelles. Soft Matter, 14(9), 1691-1701.

Yang, Z., & Liu, Y. (2017). Applications of thermoresponsive polymers in drug delivery. Journal of Controlled Release, 258, 222-234.

Zhang, L., & Ho, R. J. Y. (2001). A review of the mechanisms of liposome-mediated drug delivery. Journal of Drug Targeting, 9(5), 357-377.

Zhao, X., & Chen, J. (2016). Synthesis and application of functionalized block copolymers. European Polymer Journal, 79, 248-261.