Hybrid polymer micelles capable of cRGD targeting and pH-triggered surface charge conversion for tumor selective accumulation and promoted uptake

Abstract

This study presents both tumor-targeting ligands (cRGD) and pH-activated surface charge-conversional moiety (imidazole) decorated micelles for Dox delivery. cRGD is expected to induce preferential tumor accumulation, while imidazole switches on positive charge in a tumor acid environment, which leads to enhanced micelle uptake by tumor cells.