ABSTRACT
A nanocapsule shell of poly(ethylene glycol)-block-poly(d,l-lactic acid) (PEG-b-PLA) mixed with anionic Eudragit S100 (90/10% w/w) was previously used to entrap and define the self-assembly of indigo carmine (IC) within the hydrophilic cavity core. In the present work, binary blends were prepared by solution mixing at different PEG-b-PLA/Eudragit S100 ratios (namely, 100/0, 90/10, 75/25, and 50/50% w/w) to elucidate the role of the capsule shell in tuning the encapsulation of the anionic dye (i.e., IC). The results showed that the higher content of Eudragit S100 in the blend decreases the miscibility of the two polymers due to weak intermolecular interactions between PEG-b-PLA and Eudragit S100. Moreover, with an increase in the amount of Eudragit S100, a higher thermal stability was observed related to the mobility restriction of PEG-b-PLA chains imposed by Eudragit S100. Formulations containing 10 and 25% Eudragit S100 exhibited an optimal interplay of properties between the negative surface charge and the miscibility of the polymer blend. Therefore, the anionic character of the encapsulating agent provides sufficient accumulation of IC molecules in the nanocapsule core, leading to dye aggregates following the self-assembly. At the same time, the blending of the two polymers tunes the IC release properties in the initial stage, achieving slow and controlled release. These findings give important insights into the rational design of polymeric nanosystems containing organic dyes for biomedical applications.
ABSTRACT
The spreading of coronavirus through droplets and aerosols of an infected person is a well-known mechanism. The main protection methods from this virus are using disinfectants/sanitizers, face masks, keeping social distance, and vaccination. With the rapid mutations of the virus accompanied by its features and contagions changing, new advanced functional materials development is highly needed. The usage of disinfectants/sanitizers in excess generates poisonous effects among the general public. Effective and simultaneously, human-friendly sanitizers or disinfectants are required to prevent the poisoning and the associated issues. They minimize the toxic effects of the currently available materials by rapid action, high potential, long-term stability, and excellent biocompatible nature. Here, we summarize the available antiviral materials, their features, and their limitations. We highlight the need to develop an arsenal of advanced functional antiviral polymers with intrinsic bioactive functionalities or released bioactive moieties in a controlled manner for rapid and long-term actions for current and future anticipated viral outbreaks.
