Core cross-linked polymeric micelles based on polypept(o)ides: from secondary structure formation of polypeptides to functional cross-linking strategies for polymeric micelles

This thesis aimed to investigate core cross-linked polymeric micelles (CCPMs) and expand their potential for the delivery of hydrophobic drugs and co-factors. Applying polypept(o)ides as the polymeric platform technology, the fundamental implications of secondary structure formation on ring-opening N-carboxyanhydride (NCA) polymerization and self-assembly were examined and optimized. CCPMs with functional core architectures serving external or disease-related stimuli were developed. To establish robust CCPM production, overcome drug resistance mechanisms, and explore therapeutic agents for immunomodulation, polymer science was combined with organic and inorganic chemistry.The research was financially supported by the HaVo Stiftung, the Graduate School of Excellence Materials Science in Mainz (MAINZ), the Max Planck Graduate Center, and the Collaborative Research Center CRC1066 (DFG, Germany).Biopharmaceutic