Abstract: Nanoparticle compositions including one or more active agents, and strategies for enhanced delivery of the active agents, are provided. In preferred embodiments, the nanoparticles are composed of block copolymers of one or more hydrophobic polymers that form the core, and a hyperbranched polymer that forms a shell or corona. In some embodiments, the particles include an acid-sensitive, poly(amine-co-ester) (PACE) that can increase release of the active agent in acidic environments, for example within endosomes. The compositions can include one or more targeting moieties. Preferred targeting moieties include adenosine agonists and pHLIP which can enhance delivery to tumor cells. Methods of using the compositions to treat diseases and disorders of the central nervous system, for example, brain cancers such as glioma, are also provided.

Abstract: Nanoparticle compositions including one or more active agents, and strategies for enhanced delivery of the active agents, are provided. In preferred embodiments, the nanoparticles are composed of block copolymers of one or more hydrophobic polymers that form the core, and a hyperbranched polymer that forms a shell or corona. In some embodiments, the particles include an acid-sensitive, poly(amine-co-ester) (PACE) that can increase release of the active agent in acidic environments, for example within endosomes. The compositions can include one or more targeting moieties. Preferred targeting moieties include adenosine agonists and pHLIP which can enhance delivery to tumor cells. Methods of using the compositions to treat diseases and disorders of the central nervous system, for example, brain cancers such as glioma, are also provided.