Abstract: The present invention is directed toward water-soluble supramolecular self-assemblies and a process for their preparation via micellization of polyelectrolytes through the use of hydrophobic monomeric units. In this invention the polyelectrolyte segment ultimately forms the core of the supramolecular assembly whereas the shell consists of uncharged hydrophilic polymers or oligomers. It has been determined that the inclusion of the hydrophobic co-monomers to the polyelectrolyte segment forming the micelle core leads to a structure of enhanced stability.

Abstract: The present invention describes the preparation of unimolecular polymeric micelles (UPM) that bear a hydrophilic shell and a potentially ionizable and relatively hydrophobic core at a determined pH value. The core becomes electrostatically charged as the pH is changed. Such micelles can be made from either biodegradable or non-biodegradable polymers. Loaded drugs can be physically retained in the micelles when the pH of the surrounding medium favors interactions with the core. Upon a change in pH, modification in the ionization state of the core will decrease the interactions between the drug and the inner core and facilitate the release of the micellar contents.

Abstract: This invention relates to the field of liposomes. In particular, this invention provides novel liposomes that are pH-sensitive, yet are also stable in serum. The liposomes are complexed with a molecule comprising a thermally-sensitive polymer showing lower critical solution temperature behavior in aqueous solutions, said thermally-sensitive polymer bearing a hydrophobic substituent and a pH sensitive substituent, wherein said hydrophobic substituent is less than 10 kD and which pH sensitive substituent remains ionizable following said covalent bonding to said thermally-sensitive polymer, and whose pH sensitive does not depend on cleavage of the covalent bond to said thermally-sensitive polymer. The invention further relates to methods of conferring pH sensitivity upon liposomes by complexing the liposomes with such molecules.

Abstract: Novel polymeric micelles which are used to deliver therapeutic agents, including anti tumor drugs.