Redox-Responsive, Core Cross-Linked Polyester Micelles

Monomethoxy poly­(ethylene glycol)-<i>b</i>-poly­(Tyr­(alkynyl)-OCA), a biodegradable amphiphilic block copolymer, was synthesized by means of ring-opening polymerization of 5-(4-(prop-2-yn-1-yloxy)­benzyl)-1,3-dioxolane-2,4-dione (Tyr­(alkynyl)-OCA) and used to prepare core cross-linked polyester micelles via click chemistry. Core cross-linking not only improved the structural stability of the micelles, but also allowed controlled release of cargo molecules in response to the reducing reagent. This new class of core cross-linked micelles can potentially be used in controlled release and drug delivery applications