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In this study, a thermoresponsive double‐network (DN) nanocomposite hydrogel is developed. The primary hydrogel network comprises Pluronic P123, while the secondary network comprises gelatinmethacrylate (GELMA) and polyacrylamide (PAM). A systematic approach is adopted to develop DN hydrogels. Initially, the impact of Pluronic P123 concentrationon the mechanical properties of PAM‐GELMA hydrogel is investigated. Results from the tensile strength and the oscillatory shear tests reveal that an increasing P123 concentration has a marginal effect on the storage modulus while significantly reducing the loss modulus of the PAM‐GELMA hydrogel, thereby improving mechanical properties. Notably, DN3 hydrogel containing 7.5w/v% P123 in PAM‐GELMA exhibits osteoid matrix‐like mechanical properties. To further enhance the mechanical properties, citrate‐containing amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP_CIT) is incorporated in DN3 hydrogel at varying concentrations. At a lower concentration of ACP_CIT (0.75 w/v%), the mechanical properties of DN3‐ACP0.75 hydrogel are notably enhanced. Incorporating ACP_CIT in DN3 hydrogel (DN3‐ACP0.75) decreases creep strain, rapid stress relaxation, and reduced water uptake capacity while maintaining the thermoresponsive behavior. Finally, an in vitro analysis confirms the cytocompatibility of the hydrogels with MC3T3‐E1 cells, indicating the potential use in bone tissue engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dynamic light scattering has been employed to investigate aqueous Pluronic P123 solutions at different temperatures and in the presence of different solvents and quercetin additives. Significant changes have been revealed in the average particle size and polydispersity index depending on the conditions. The effect of temperature on micellization of the block copolymer in aqueous solutions has been studied in a range T = 15–45°C, which is most often considered when using P123 in the sol–gel synthesis of silica. The most pronounced effect of temperature on the micellization of the studied surfactant has been observed at T = 15–20°C. In this temperature range, the scattered light intensity distribution over particle sizes has a polymodal character, which indicates the presence of macromolecules, micelles, and their aggregates in the system. A further increase in temperature up to 45°C causes no significant changes in the particle size. In aqueous solutions, micelles with a narrow size distribution (minimum polydispersity index) are formed within temperature ranges of 21–25 and 35–40°C. Substantial effects have been found when adding alkanols and polyphenolic substances as solubilizers capable of influencing the structure of micelles both in their bulk and on the surface of polar moieties of the surfactant. It has been shown that, in the presence of butanol-1, micelles are stabilized at temperatures of 15–20°C. At T > 30°C, the structure of micelles is transformed. As the fraction of butanol-1 in the solution increases, its influence is manifested at lower temperatures. It has been noted that ethanol has a destructive effect on micelles. Additives of quercetin exhibit an opposite effect of micelle stabilization, which leads to the formation of a homogeneous surfactant structure. It has been shown that, by varying solvent composition, the flavonoid–micelle binding can be controlled due to changes in the solvation. The greatest influence of quercetin on the structure formation of P123 has been observed at a solvent composition corresponding to ethanol-to-block copolymer molar ratio of n(EtOH) : n(P123) = 80 : 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aims to evaluate the percutaneous permeation profiles of caffeic acid (CA) from the cubic and hexagonal liquid crystalline phases of Pluronic P123/water mixtures. Method: The resulting drug-loaded mesophases were subjected to characterisation through deuterium nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and polarised optical microscopy observations. These analyses aimed to evaluate the structural changes that occurred in the mesophases loading with CA. Additionally, steady and dynamic rheology studies were conducted to further explore their mechanical properties and correlate them to the supramolecular structure. Finally, CA release experiments were carried out at two different temperatures to examine the behaviour of the structured systems in a physiological or hyperthermic state. Results: As the concentration of the polymer increases, an increase in the viscosity of the gel is noted; however, the addition of caffeic acid increases microstructure fluidity. It is observed that the temperature effect conforms to expectations. The increase in temperature causes a decrease in viscosity and, consequently, an increase in the rate of permeation of caffeic acid. Conclusions: The CA permeation profile from the prepared formulations is mostly dependent on the structural organisation and temperature. Cubic mesophase LLC 30/CA showed greater skin permeation with good accumulation in the skin at both tested temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug-coated balloons (DCBs) are effective tools for cardiovascular interventions, ensuring uniform drug delivery to occluded arteries. This research investigates the potential of Pluronic P123 (P123), a micelle-forming polymer, to solubilize and release Everolimus (EVE) from DCBs. Furthermore, it seeks to understand how the ratio of P123 to EVE affects release rates and micelle formation under physiological conditions. We tested three P123 to EVE ratios: 90:10, 75:25, and 50:50. Microscopy revealed that increasing EVE proportions resulted in more uniform coatings. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of EVE into the P123 matrix without altering its chemical properties. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies showed that EVE incorporation affected the crystalline structure of P123, leading to more uniform coatings. In vitro release studies showed that all formulations had

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) is a promising therapeutic strategy for treating bacterial infections resistant to conventional antibiotics. In the search for ideal photosensitizers (PSs), we became interested in phenazine compounds, such as Neutral Red (NR) and its halogenated derivative (NRBr). Although they have shown good results in the inactivation of Staphylococcus aureus in their free form, they have some undesirable properties that could be overcome by using drug delivery systems. In this work, we propose the use of polymeric micelles for the development of nanophotosensitizers from Pluronic P123 and F108. The micellar systems developed had a size close to 30–40 nm and allowed us to obtain seven nanophotosensitizers. All of them increased the chemical stability of NRBr and did not modify the stability of NR, which was already stable in buffer solution (pH = 7.4). Furthermore, the Pluronic micelles markedly decreased the aggregation of PSs and increased their photochemical reactivity. The nanophotosensitizers prepared from Pluronic P123 micelles (5% wt/vol) gave the best results and optimized the properties of NR and NRBr. In agreement with that, the new nanophotosensitizers of P123‐5% showed better photodynamic inactivation of NR and NRBr against methicillin resistant S. aureus than the free photosensitizers and the other micellar systems. Both photosensitizers loaded into the P123‐5% eradicated this microorganism using 30 min of irradiation. Therefore, it is concluded that these polymeric micelles are an excellent alternative for the vehiculization of PSs and that their combination with NR and NRBr enhances the photodynamic efficiency for their use in aPDT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous Silica with a large mesopore channel was synthesized using the sol-gel method for dye adsorption. A dual template consisting of P123 and gelatin at different ratios was employed in the sol-gel synthesis to enhance surface area and mesopore diameter. Gelatin is a green pore directing agent that strengthens P123 thermal stability during the calcination of silicate gel. Optimization of P123:gelatin ratio to 1:0.02 increased the surface area of mesoporous silica to 561.9 m2/g and expanded the pore diameter to 10 nm. The large pore diameter and surface area enhanced methylene blue adsorption capacity to 363.63 mg/g. The adsorption of methylene blue on mesoporous silica follows the pseudo second-order kinetic and the Langmuir model. Regeneration studies using thermal and chemical treatments exhibited the potential of mesoporous silica as an adsorbent for multiple adsorption-desorption of dyes.

Background: This study aims to evaluate the percutaneous permeation profiles of caffeic acid (CA) from the cubic and hexagonal liquid crystalline phases of Pluronic P123/water mixtures. Method: The resulting drug-loaded mesophases were subjected to characterisation through deuterium nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and polarised optical microscopy observations. These analyses aimed to evaluate the structural changes that occurred in the mesophases loading with CA. Additionally, steady and dynamic rheology studies were conducted to further explore their mechanical properties and correlate them to the supramolecular structure. Finally, CA release experiments were carried out at two different temperatures to examine the behaviour of the structured systems in a physiological or hyperthermic state. Results: As the concentration of the polymer increases, an increase in the viscosity of the gel is noted; however, the addition of caffeic acid increases microstructure fluidity. It is observed that the temperature effect conforms to expectations. The increase in temperature causes a decrease in viscosity and, consequently, an increase in the rate of permeation of caffeic acid. Conclusions: The CA permeation profile from the prepared formulations is mostly dependent on the structural organisation and temperature. Cubic mesophase LLC 30/CA showed greater skin permeation with good accumulation in the skin at both tested temperatures.

In this study, diopside coated Poly-L-lactic acid-based (PLLA/Diopside) and Poly-L-lactic acid along with pluronic acid (PLLA-P123/Diopside) scaffolds were fabricated by electrospinning to improve the drawbacks with pure polymer and pure bioceramic scaffolds in bone tissue engineering application. The surface morphology, hydrophilicity, and mechanical strength were evaluated. The cell proliferation, differentiation, and expression of osteo related genes were evaluated by measuring the basic osteogenic markers and real time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Diopside coated Poly-L-lactic acid-based nanofibrous scaffolds have improved surface and biological properties making them a good promising candidate for proliferation and osteogenic differentiation in bone repair and regeneration compared to nanofibrous scaffolds without diopside. Especially, post plasma treated diopside coated PLLA demonstrated better osteogenesis and expression of osteo related genes than the other groups. Although, diopside coated PLLA-P123 composite in comparison with PLLA-Plasma/diopside scaffolds were showed less osteogenesis and expression of osteo related genes, but the results were comparable. Therefore, diopside coated (PLLA-plasma and PLLA/P123 composite) scaffolds could be ideal cost effective grafts in bone repair and replacement therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous nano Ni-Al2O3 catalysts were prepared by using Pluronic P123 (P123) and fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether (AEO-7) as structure directing agents (SDAs), and applied for CO2 methanation in a continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR). Compared with NiAl-A prepared by using AEO-7 as SDA and NiAl-N without SDA, NiAl-P prepared by using P123 as SDA possesses ordered mesopores, high Ni dispersion, large metal surface area and amounts of adsorbed CO2, which benefits CO2 conversion. Under the conditions of 1.0 MPa, 300 °C and H2/CO2 ratio of 4, NiAl-P shows the highest CO2 conversion of 74.0% and CH4 yield of 73.6%.

The data provided in this study are related to the fabrication of two light-responsive systems based on reduced graphene oxide (rGO) functionalized with the polymers Pluronic P123 (P123), rGO-P123, and polyethyleneimine (PEI), rGO-PEI, and loaded with amphotericin B (AmB), an antileishmanial drug. Here are described the experimental design to obtain the systems and characterization methods, such as Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), Raman Spectroscopy, Powder X-Ray Diffraction, Transmission Electron Microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Thermogravimetric Analyses. Also, AmB spectroscopy studies are described. The materials rGO-P123 and rGO-PEI were loaded with AmB and the optimization of AmB and polymer fragments structures revealed several possible hydrogen bonds formed between the materials and the drug. The drug release was analyzed with and without Near-Infrared (NIR) light. In the studies conducted under NIR light irradiation for 10 min, an infrared lamp was disposed at 64 cm from the samples and an optical fiber thermometer was employed to measure the temperature variation. Cytotoxicity studies and antiproliferative assays against Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes were evaluated. The complete work data entitled Amphotericin-B-Loaded Polymer-Functionalized Reduced Graphene Oxides for Leishmania amazonensis Chemo-Photothermal Therapy have been published to Colloids and Surfaces B: Bionterfaces (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.colsurfb.2021.112169) [1].

In this study, we investigated two formulations of chitosan-Pluronic P123 with different folate ligand designation for targeted delivery of Paclitaxel (PTX), in which folic acid (FA) was directly conjugated to chitosan (FA-Cs-P123) or substituted onto P123 (Cs-P123-FA). The results showed that the FA content of Cs-P123-FA was determined at 0.71 wt/wt% which was significantly higher than that of FA-Cs-P123 (0.31 wt/wt%). Two copolymers were low critical gel concentrations (CGC). FA-Cs-P123 and Cs-P123-FA nanogels performed high PTX encapsulation efficiency reaching 95.57 ± 5.51 and 92.51 ± 6.68 wt/wt%, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and zeta potential analysis indicated that the PTX-loaded nanogels were spherically formed around 60 nm in diameter along with positive charge. Furthermore, the PTX release profile was slow and it was controlled by the pH of the medium. In particular, in vitro biocompatibility assays indicated that both FA-Cs-P123 and Cs-P123-FA exhibited good biological compatibility with a human foreskin fibroblast cell line and well uptake efficiency into MCF-7 cancer cells. Cs-P123-FA nanogel significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of PTX in comparison with FA-Cs-P123. The result indicates that Cs-P123-FA nanogels with a higher decorated FA content perform a better targeting efficiency; therefore, they could have great potential application towards breast cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have reported the synthesis of strontium titanate (ST) nanomaterials via sol-gel combustion method in the presence and absence of pluronic P123 as a templating agent and citric acid as fuel at relatively high temperature. The presence of templating agent and fuel helps to generate mesoporosity in the materials resulting in mesoporous strontium titanate (MST). The materials are well characterized by various instrumental techniques. X-ray powder diffraction analysis has confirmed that both of the strontium titanate materials exhibited cubic perovskite structure. The FT-IR spectra has indicated that during high temperature calcination, carbonate species expelled out from the decomposition of the volatile impurities get adsorbed on the surface of titanate nanostructure, which is predominant in MST as indicated by the variation in the intensity of peak in between 1450 cm-1-1470 cm-1. From diffuse reflectance spectra, the absorption edge of the MST is extended to visible regions and showed band gap energy of 3.14 eV compared to 3.21 eV for ST. The reduction in intensities of PL emission bands in MST compared to ST has indicated that slow electron-hole recombination takes place in this material compared to ST. The Transmission electron microscopic studies reveal the formation of spherical and cuboidal nanostructures with an average size of 55 and 38 nm for ST and MST material, respectively. From N2 sorption studies, the MST exhibit type IV adsorption isotherms with H3 type hysteresis loop indicated the formation of mesoporosity in this material whereas the ST indicated the formation of type II adsorption isotherms typical of nonporous materials. The elemental analysis of MST material is further confirmed from X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis and confirm the formation of carbonate species on the surface of the materials. The photocatalytic activity of the materials is elucidated by the degradation of methylene blue under UV light irradiation and degradation followed first order kinetics with Langmuir-Hinshelwood adsorption pathways. The activity of MST material is found to be 5 times faster than ST at similar experimental conditions. The enhanced activity of the MST might be attributed to, lower band gap energy, presence of carbonate species, and lower electron-hole recombination in this material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two approaches for metal ion incorporation were employed to introduce Ca2+ into SBA-15; Direct Synthesis (DS) and Wet Impregnation (WI). The non-ionic template was removed by two different methods; calcination and solvent extraction. The obtained catalysts were characterized by means of X-Ray Powder Diffraction (XRD), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), and FT-IR spectroscopy. The basicity was determined by using Hammett indicators and benzoic acid titration. The effects of synthesis methods and organic template on basicity and catalytic performance were studied in the transesterification of Canola oil with methanol. 1H NMR was used to analyze the products. The best results were obtained using catalysts which prepared by wet impregnation method. Furthermore, calcination is a better method of template removal. So calcined Ca/SBA-15 prepared by impregnation showed particularly the highest activity (conversion 84.2 %). Although dis catalyst has a limited reusability in the transesterification reaction.

The aim of the current study was to formulate terconazole (TCZ) loaded polymeric mixed micelles (PMMs) incorporating Cremophor EL as a stabilizer and a penetration enhancer. A 23 full factorial design was performed using Design-Expert® software for the optimization of the PMMs which were formulated using Pluronic P123 and Pluronic F127 together with Cremophor EL. To confirm the role of Cremophor EL, PMMs formulation lacking Cremophor EL was prepared for the purpose of comparison. Results showed that the optimal PMMs formulation (F7, where the ratio of total Pluronics to drug was 40:1, the weight ratio of Pluronic P123 to Pluronic F127 was 4:1, and the percentage of Cremophor EL in aqueous phase was 5%) had a high micellar incorporation efficiency (92.98 ± 0.40%) and a very small micellar size (33.23 ± 8.00 nm). Transmission electron microscopy revealed that PMMs possess spherical shape and good dispersibility. The optimal PMMs exhibited superior physical stability when compared with the PMMs formulation of the same composition but lacking Cremophor EL. Ex vivo studies demonstrated that the optimal PMMs formula markedly improved the dermal TCZ delivery compared to PMMs lacking Cremophor EL and TCZ suspension. In addition, it was found that the optimal PMMs exhibited a greater extent of TCZ deposition in the rat dorsal skin relative to TCZ suspension. Moreover, histopathological studies revealed the safety of the optimal PMMs upon topical application to rats. Consequently, PMMs enriched with Cremophor EL, as a stable nano-system, could be promising for the skin delivery of TCZ.

Well-defined carbon materials with tailored unique pore structure are crucial to develop advanced zinc ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZIHCs), but effective synthesis is still a challenge. Herein, hierarchically porous carbon nanorods (HPCNs) are successfully synthesized by Pluronic P123 (PEO 20 PPO 70 PEO 20) mediated dynamic dual template method that tetraethylsiloxane (TEOS) and sucrose are adopted as silicon (Si) and carbon (C) precursors, respectively. During synthesis, the rod-like organic mesomorphous complexes are generated by self-assembly of cetyltrimethyl ammonium/poly-(acrylic acid) (CTAB/PAA) under the assistance of Pluronic P123 as dynamic soft templates and in-situ formed silica particles as hard templates. The synthesized HPCNs have uniform rod-like morphology, high surface area and notable specific capacity. Furthermore, the HPCNs are activated to afford AHPCNs with enriched micropores and increased surface area of 905 m2 g−1. Consequently, ZIHCs with the AHPCNs as cathode display attractive electrochemical performances including large capacity (157.1 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1), exceptional rate performance (110.3 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1), high energy density (125.7 Wh kg−1) and power density (16 kW kg−1). Moreover, ZIHCs demonstrated brilliant capacity retention of 100% even after 10,000 cycles at 5 A g−1. Our work presents an effective approach for controllable engineering of hierarchically porous carbon nanorod materials. Meanwhile, it also offers theoretical and technical support to develop advanced zinc ion capacitor energy storage devices. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In tissue engineering, it is common to mix drugs that can control proliferation and differentiation of cells into polymeric solutions as part of composite to get bioactive scaffolds. However, direct incorporation of drugs might potentially result in undesired burst release. To overcome this problem, here we developed electrospun multilayer drug loaded poly-L-lactic acid/pluronic P123 (PLLA-P123) composite scaffolds. The drug was loaded into the middle layer. The surface, the mechanical and physiochemical properties of the scaffolds were evaluated. The drug release profiles were monitored. Finally, the osteogenic proliferation and differentiation potential were determined. The scaffolds fabricated here have appropriate surface properties, but with different mechanical strength and osteogenic proliferation and differentiation. Multi-layer scaffolds where the drug was in the middle layer and PLLA-plasma and PLLA-P123 with cover layer showed the best osteogenic proliferation and differentiation than the other groups of scaffolds. The drug release profiles of the scaffolds were completely different: single layer scaffolds showed burst release within the first day, while multilayer scaffolds showed controlled release. Therefore, the multilayer drug loaded scaffolds prepared have dual benefits can provide both better osteogenesis and controlled release of drugs and bioactive molecules at the implant site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Abstract Currently marketed drug-eluting stents are non-selective in their anti-restenotic action. New active substance introduction to polymeric stents and vascular grafts can promote early re-endothelialization, crucial in preventing implant restenosis. Additionally, managing material hydrophobicity by blending synthetic polymers limits adverse effects on bulk properties and controls active substance release. However, the influence of hydrophilic synthetic polymer on human cells in the cardiovascular system remains to be determined. In this report, effects of both poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) fibers hydrophilization with Pluronic P123 (P123) and cilostazol (CIL) loading were studied. Physicochemical and mechanical properties of electrospun tubular structures produced from PCL and PCL/P123 fibers with and without CIL were investigated and compared. Release profiles studies and in vitro cell proliferation assays of electrospun materials were conducted. It was found that P123 located near the surface of electrospun fibers increased the rate of CIL release. PCL formulation sustained human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) growth for 48 h. Despite improved hydrophilicity, PCL/P123 formulations were found to reduce HUVEC viability. Both PCL and PCL/P123 materials reduced primary aortic smooth muscle cells (PASM) viability after 48 h. In PCL formulations containing CIL, drug release caused a decrease in PASM viability. P123 blending with PCL was found to be as a useful pre-fabrication technique for modulating surface hydrophobicity of electrospun materials and the release profile of incorporated active substance. The cytotoxicity of P123 was evaluated to improve the design of drug-loaded vascular grafts for cardiovascular applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Santa Barbara Amorphous-15 (SBA-15) is an interesting mesoporous silica material with highly ordered nanopores and a large surface area. Due to its unique properties, this material has been widely employed in many areas. This study aimed to predict the number of nanopores per gram of SBA-15 material based on an optimum value of surfactant addition at the desired number of nanopores. For this purpose, SBA-15 was synthesized via a sol-gel process using tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS, Si(OC2H5)4) as a precursor and pluronic P123 triblock copolymer surfactant (EO20PO70EO20, EO = ethylene oxide, PO = propylene oxide) as a template. There were five different surfactant concentrations, namely 0.35, 2.50, 2.70, 3.00, and 3.30 millimoles, used with a fixed concentration of TEOS. The characterization was performed using small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS), adsorption-desorption (BET), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that the surfactant concentration did not affect the crystal structure, although an increase in the surfactant concentration linearly correlated with an increase in the surface area. The shape and size of the pore diameter tends to be approximately 3 nm, as characterized using BET adsorption-desorption. The optimum concentration of surfactant for the formation of mesoporous SBA-15 material was 2.70 millimoles. The value obtained in this study was in accordance with the calculated value, indicating that the theoretical calculations can be used to experimentally predict the number of pores.

The aim of the current study was to formulate terconazole (TCZ) loaded polymeric mixed micelles (PMMs) incorporating Cremophor EL as a stabilizer and a penetration enhancer. A 23 full factorial design was performed using Design-Expert® software for the optimization of the PMMs which were formulated using Pluronic P123 and Pluronic F127 together with Cremophor EL. To confirm the role of Cremophor EL, PMMs formulation lacking Cremophor EL was prepared for the purpose of comparison. Results showed that the optimal PMMs formulation (F7, where the ratio of total Pluronics to drug was 40:1, the weight ratio of Pluronic P123 to Pluronic F127 was 4:1, and the percentage of Cremophor EL in aqueous phase was 5%) had a high micellar incorporation efficiency (92.98 ± 0.40%) and a very small micellar size (33.23 ± 8.00 nm). Transmission electron microscopy revealed that PMMs possess spherical shape and good dispersibility. The optimal PMMs exhibited superior physical stability when compared with the PMMs formulation of the same composition but lacking Cremophor EL. Ex vivo studies demonstrated that the optimal PMMs formula markedly improved the dermal TCZ delivery compared to PMMs lacking Cremophor EL and TCZ suspension. In addition, it was found that the optimal PMMs exhibited a greater extent of TCZ deposition in the rat dorsal skin relative to TCZ suspension. Moreover, histopathological studies revealed the safety of the optimal PMMs upon topical application to rats. Consequently, PMMs enriched with Cremophor EL, as a stable nano-system, could be promising for the skin delivery of TCZ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) nano fibrous scaffolds prepared by electrospinning technology have been used widely in tissue engineering applications. However, PLLA scaffolds are hydrophobic in nature, moreover the fibrous porous structure produced by electrospinning makes the scaffolds even more hydrophobic which generally limits cell attachment and proliferation. Polymer blending is one of the several efforts used so far to enhance hydrophilicity and recognized as an easy cost-effective approach for the manipulation physiochemical properties of polymeric biomaterials. Pluronic block copolymers containing hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) blocks and hydrophobic poly(propylene oxide) (PPO) blocks are arranged in triblock structure: PEO-PPO-PEO. It is commonly used recently to blend hydrophobic polymers to enhance hydrophilicity for pharmaceutical and tissue engineering applications. In this study, novel pluronic P123 blend PLLA electrospun nanofibre scaffolds with improved hydrophilicity and biological properties were fabricated. The surface morphology and surface chemistry of the nanofibre scaffolds were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and FTIR analyses. Surface hydrophilicity and change in mechanical properties were studied. The ability of the scaffolds to support the attachment, and proliferation and differentiation of human adipose tissue derived MSCs, were evaluated generally. The fabricated scaffolds have completely improved, hydrophilicity, similar osteogenic differentiation potential with plasma-treated PLLA nanofibre scaffold, and hence P123 blend PLLA electrospun nanofibre scaffolds are a very good and cost effective choice as a scaffold for bone tissue engineering application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reformulation of electrolyte systems and improvement of separator wettability are vital to electrochemical performances of rechargeable lithium (Li) metal batteries, especially for suppressing Li dendrites. In this work we report a bifunctional electrolyte additive that improves separator wettability and suppresses Li dendrite growth in Li metal batteries. A triblock polyether (Pluronic P123) is added as an additive into a commonly used carbonate-based electrolyte. It is found that addition of 0.2–1% (by weight) P123 into the electrolyte can effectively enhance the wettability of polyethylene separator. More importantly, the adsorption of P123 on Li metal surface can act as an artificial solid electrolyte interphase layer and suppress the growth of Li dendrites. A smooth and dendrite-free Li morphology can be achieved in the electrolyte with 0.2% P123. The Li||Li symmetric cells with the 0.2% P123-containing electrolyte exhibit a relatively long cycling stability at high current densities of 1.0 and 3.0 mA cm −2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quercetin (QT) is a plant polyphenol with various pharmacological properties. However, the low water solubility limits its therapeutic efficacy. In the present study, QT-loaded sodium taurocholate-Pluronic P123 (QT-loaded ST/P123) mixed micelles were developed and characterized, and the effect of the formulation on improving the water solubility of QT was investigated. QT-loaded ST/P123 mixed micelles were prepared by thin film hydration-direct dissolution and optimized by uniform design. The optimal formulation possessed high drug loading (12.6%) and entrapment efficiency (95.9%) in small (16.20 nm) spherically-shaped micelles. A low critical micelle concentration indicated that the micelles were stable, and they showed a sustained release pattern, as determinedin vitroin simulated gastric fluid and intestinal fluid. Pharmacokinetic evaluation showed theCmaxand AUC0–24were 1.8-fold and 1.6-fold higher than the QT suspension. The present results indicate that QT-loaded ST/P123 micelles are potential candidates to improve the solubility and oral bioavailability of QT. Schematic illustration of QT-loaded mixed micelles. ST, P123 and QT were dissolved in EtOH, then evaporated to obtain thin film, followed by hydration to form a uniform system. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The adsorption of lysozyme in the presence of high molecular weight (pluronic P123) and low molecular weight (Brij-35) non-ionic surfactants was studied at liquid-liquid and liquid-air interfaces. Using tritium-labeled compounds and liquid scintillation spectrometry of tritium, we investigated the competitive adsorption of lysozyme-pluronic P123 and lysozyme-Brij-35 at the aqueous-xylene interface. The substitution of protein by both polymer and low molecular weight surfactant was observed, while the presence of lysozyme does not influence the behavior of non-ionic molecules. We found that the ionic strength of the aqueous phase does not influence the strength of the effect, while it has a significant influence on the rate of diffusion and penetration of the adsorption layer by free protein. The thermodynamics of the competitive adsorption was described by the model suggested by Fainerman and co-authors, and the obtained parameters were used to describe the interfacial tension isotherms of the respective mixtures at the aqueous-air interface. Thus, the adsorption of each component of the mixture (protein and non-ionic surfactant) at the aqueous-air interface was revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well-known that drugs administered into an organism intravenously or through the gastrointestinal tract are degraded by enzymes of the body, reducing their therapeutic effect. One of the ways to decrease this undesirable process is through the inclusion of drugs in nanomaterials. Earlier strong anticoagulant activity was demonstrated for dipeptide IleTrp (IW) and adenosine (Ado). In this work, the effect of inclusion in nanomaterials on the biological activity of IW and Ado was studied. For this purpose, Ado and IW were incorporated into thermosensitive nanogel composed of pluronic P123-grafted heparin. The prepared nanocarrier was characterized by transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and ζ-potential. Biological activity was determined by measuring the bleeding time from mouse tail in vivo and the time of clot formation in vitro. It was found that encapsulation of Ado and IW into nanomaterial significantly increased their effects, resulting in an increase in the bleeding time from mouse tail and clot formation time. Thus, inclusion of low molecular weight anticoagulants Ado and IW into nanomaterials may be considered a way to increase their biological activity.

This review focuses on recent investigations that used Pluronic P123 (P123) as pharmaceutical ingredients in vesicle, micelle, mixed micelle, in situ gel, tablet and emulsion. The main results from these studies show that P123 can significantly increase the stability of incorporated hydrophobic drugs with enhanced in vitro cytotoxicity and cellular uptake of anticancer drugs. Moreover, modified forms of P123 with RGD, folate or other targeted marker have shown its therapeutic potentials in various types of tumors and cancers. Furthermore, modified forms of P123 alone and/or mixed with other copolymers have less toxic effects and more tumor-specific delivery of anticancer drugs. They are promising materials as a nanoplatform for the drug delivery. Finally, the future perspectives of the field are briefly discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work reports the profiles of drug release systems based on different polymers for the potential use as a skin anti-inflammatory. The materials used for the encapsulation of indomethacin were Pluronic P123 with various combinations of poly-ethylene-glycol and poly- N -vinyl pyrrolidone. These systems were characterized via Fourier transform infrared spectrometry and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The morphology showed the treated polymers as spheres. Drug loadings were carried out via the absorption in solution method; this load was of a 1:10 wt ratio indomethacin to polymers. Drug release tests were performed via the dialysis method pH 7.2 phosphate buffered saline at 32 °C. The drug concentration was determined via UV–Vis spectroscopy, and additionally, a theoretical model was developed based on diffusion equations to describe the phenomenon. Comparison between the experimental results and theory was close to 5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Santa Barbara Amorphous-15 (SBA-15) is an interesting mesoporous silica material with highly ordered nanopores and a large surface area. Due to its unique properties, this material has been widely employed in many areas. This study aimed to predict the number of nanopores per gram of SBA-15 material based on an optimum value of surfactant addition at the desired number of nanopores. For this purpose, SBA-15 was synthesized via a sol-gel process using tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS, Si(OC2H5)4) as a precursor and pluronic P123 triblock copolymer surfactant (EO20PO70EO20, EO = ethylene oxide, PO = propylene oxide) as a template. There were five different surfactant concentrations, namely 0.35, 2.50, 2.70, 3.00, and 3.30 millimoles, used with a fixed concentration of TEOS. The characterization was performed using small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS), adsorption-desorption (BET), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results showed that the surfactant concentration did not affect the crystal structure, although an increase in the surfactant concentration linearly correlated with an increase in the surface area. The shape and size of the pore diameter tends to be approximately 3 nm, as characterized using BET adsorption-desorption. The optimum concentration of surfactant for the formation of mesoporous SBA-15 material was 2.70 millimoles. The value obtained in this study was in accordance with the calculated value, indicating that the theoretical calculations can be used to experimentally predict the number of pores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, mesoporous SrTiO 3 (MST) nanoparticles were synthesized via a self-assembly sol–gel combustion method using a commercial non-ionic triblock copolymer (Pluronic P123) as a structure-directing agent. The effect of adding citric acid as a metal-ion complexing agent on the formation of crystalline SrTiO 3 with enhanced surface area and mesoporosity was investigated. Simultaneous thermal analysis and powder X-ray diffraction indicated that the citric acid added to the synthesis mixture enhances the formation of high-purity perovskite SrTiO 3 crystallites. The MST synthesized in the presence of both Pluronic P123 and citric acid (MST-C) possessed higher surface area (41.5 m 2 g −1 ) and larger pore volume (0.20 cm 3 g −1 ) than materials synthesized without the addition of either citric acid or the templating agent. The SrTiO 3 crystals of MST-C shared edges and corners to form globular agglomerates with accessible mesopores revealed by electron microscopy. Results suggest that the mesoporous structure is generated via a hard template route. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous zeolite Y (denoted as meso-Y) was synthesized using hydrothermal synthesis method using pluronic P123 block copolymer as template. Furthermore, stabilized Y (USY) was prepared through ion exchange and ultra-stabilization process of the meso-Y. The catalysts were prepared and characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, N 2 adsorption–desorption, NH 3 -TPD and Py-IR. These catalysts were evaluated by determining the micro-activity using the light diesel oil as sample. The results showed that the Meso-CAT-3 catalyst had the highest micro-activity and lowest coke yield. It could be ascribed to the mesoporous structure which is known to improve the mass transfer of the larger molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug loading is a key procedure in the preparation of drug-loaded nano-carriers. In this study, the paclitaxel (PTX)-loaded polymeric complex micelles (FA-P123-PTX/PTX micelles) with double drug-loading strategies were designed and prepared to improve the drug loading percentage of carriers and its anti-tumor efficiency. PTX was simultaneously conjugated to pluronic P123 (P123) polymer and encapsulated inside the P123 complex micelle. Folate (FA) was linked to the surface of micelles for the active target delivery of micelles to tumor cells. The FA-P123-PTX/PTX micelles showed spherical shaped with high drug loading of 18.08 ± 0.64%. The results of cellular uptake studies suggested that FA could promote the internalization of micelles into the FR positive cells. FA-P123-PTX/PTX micelles showed significant higher anti-tumor activity against FR positive tumor cells compared to Taxol ® ( p < 0.05). Moreover, the FA-P123-PTX/PTX micelles exhibited higher anti-tumor efficacy in B16 bearing mice with better safety property compared with Taxol ® . These results suggested that FA-P123-PTX/PTX micelles with double drug-loading strategies showed great potential for targeted delivery of anti-cancer drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: O-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)1-[(4-ethoxycarbonyl)piperazin-1-yl]diazen-1-ium-1,2-diolate] or JS-K is a nitric oxide-producing prodrug of the arylated diazeniumdiolate class with promising anti-tumor activity. JS-K has challenging solubility and stability properties. We aimed to characterize and compare Pluronic P123-formulated JS-K (P123/JS-K) with free JS-K. Methods: We determined micelle size, shape, and critical micelle concentration of Pluronic P123. Efficacy was evaluated in vitro using HL-60 and U937 cells and in vivo in a xenograft in NOD/SCID IL2Rγ mice using HL-60 cells. We compared JS-K and P123/JS-K stability in different media. We also compared plasma protein binding of JS-K and P123/JS-K. We determined the binding and Stern Volmer constants, and thermodynamic parameters. Results: Spherical P123/JS-K micelles were smaller than blank P123. P123/JS-K formulation was more stable in buffered saline, whole blood, plasma and RPMI media as compared to free JS-K. P123 affected the protein binding properties of JS-K. In vitro it was as efficacious as JS-K alone when tested in HL-60 and U937 cells and in vivo greater tumor regression was observed for P123/JS-K treated NOD/SCID IL2Rγ mice when compared to free JS-K-treated NOD/SCID IL2Rγ mice. Conclusions: Pluronic P123 solubilizes, stabilizes and affects the protein binding characteristics of JS-K. P123/JS-K showed more in vivo anti-tumor activity than free JS-K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supramolecular assemblies formed between cyclodextrins and block copolymers can be efficiently used as templates for the preparation of mesoporous materials with controlled porosity. In this work, we use dynamic light scattering (DLS) and viscosity measurements to follow the variations occurring in the size and morphology of the triblock copolymer poly(ethylene oxide)- b-poly(propylene oxide)- b-poly(ethylene oxide) (P123) micelles in the presence of various amounts of randomly methylated β-cyclodextrin (RAMEB). The results obtained with a series of solution compositions reveal that the cyclodextrin-to-copolymer (RAMEB/P123) molar ratio plays a crucial role in the growth rate of the micelles. At low RAMEB/P123 molar ratios (below ~7.5), a swelling effect of the cyclodextrin in the P123 micelles is noticed together with a modification of the micellar curvature from spherical to ellipsoidal. At high molar ratios (~7.5 and above), an abrupt transition toward large supramolecular assemblies, which no longer resemble micelles, occurs. When the RAMEB-swollen P123 micelles are used as templates to direct the self-assembly of colloidal boehmite nanoparticles, mesoporous γ-AlO materials with high surface areas (360-400 m/g), tunable pore sizes (10-20 nm), large pore volumes (1.3-2.0 cm/g) and fiberlike morphologies are obtained under mild conditions. The composition of the mixed micellar solution, in particular the cyclodextrin-to-copolymer molar ratio, appears to be a key factor in controlling the porosity of alumina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The crystallization of calcium carbonate (CaCO 3) controlled by Pluronic P123 in a room-temperature ionic liquid, ethylamine nitrate (EAN), was investigated. The CaCO 3 aggregates were obtained by rapid mixing of ammonium carbonate ((NH 4) 2CO 3) and calcium chloride (CaCl 2). Cubic calcite, spherical vaterite, and bagel-like vaterite were obtained easily by changing P123 concentration and reaction temperature. The morphologies of the as-prepared CaCO 3 aggregates were investigated by transmission electron microscopy and scanning electronic microscopy. The phase change of the obtained crystals was confirmed by X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It was shown that higher P123 concentration and higher reaction temperature favor the formation of vaterite in EAN. Unusual bagel-like vaterite was first obtained at 60 °C in the presence of 5 g/L P123 in EAN. Mineralization of CaCO 3 regulated by P123 in EAN is a simple, novel, and environment-friendly strategy for vaterite synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Emulsifier mixture can alter the emulsion activation energy and stability. [•] Emulsions prepared with the emulsifier mixture have low degradation rate. [•] Emulsifiers with high transition temperature and steric hindrance enhance stability of oil droplets. [•] Insight on the rational design of submicron emulsions for intravenous administration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pH- and temperature-sensitive hydrogel of poly(styrene-alt-maleic anhydride) -co-Pluronic P123 (PSMA-P123) was prepared by the reaction of anhydride groups (MA) on PSMA with the hydroxyl groups on Pluronic (triblock polyethylene oxide-co-polypropylene oxide-co-polyethylene oxide, HO(CH2CH2O)20(CH2CH(CH3)O)70(CH2CH2O)20OH). The effect of proportions between PMSA and P123 on the gel fraction was determined. The effects of pH value and temperature on swelling ratio of the hydrogels were evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the morphology of the hydrogels. Differential scanning calorimetry was employed to characterize the thermo-sensitivity of the hydrogel. The drug-release behavior of the hydrogels was investigated by using chloromycetin as a model drug. The effect of temperature and pH on the release of chloromycetin from the hydrogels was studied. These results showed that PSMA-P123 hydrogels, being pH- and temperature-sensitive and reversible, appeared to be of potential for biomedical materials, especially for drug release applications. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Highlights: [•] A novel apigenin-loaded mixed micelle was prepared and optimized. [•] The solubility of apigenin in the micelles was 148 times that of crude apigenin. [•] CMC of the mixed micelles was as low as 4.23×10−5 mol/L. [•] The cytotoxicity against HepG2 and MCF-7 cells shows enhanced inhibition rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Hierarchically meso–macroporous tetragonal ZrO2 (t-ZrO2) thin films with tunable thickness were prepared by spin-coating method via Pluronic P123 templated sol–gel route. This hierarchically porous ZrO2 was characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscope, atomic force microscope, nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm, X-ray diffraction, and ultraviolet–visible spectrometer. Effects of rotation speed and by coating another layer of sol on the first layer during spin-coating on the thickness and mesoporous structure of ZrO2 thin films formed were investigated. The meso–macroporous ZrO2 film coated on a glass substrate possessed an average transmittance higher than 80% in the visible range. It was suggested that the structure of Pluronic P123 was changed as concentration of deposited sol varied over time, which led to the formation of worm-like mesospores coexisted with macropores and rod-like ZrO2 framework. Formation of cracks on ZrO2 thin films was initiated by the structure of meso–macropores and shrinkage of respective films. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this study, curcumin (Cur) loaded mixed micelles (Cur-PF), composed of Pluronic P123 (P123) and Pluronic F68 (F68), was prepared using the thin-film hydration method and evaluated in vitro. The preparation process was optimized with a central composite design (CCD). The average size of the mixed micelles was 68.2nm, and the encapsulating efficiency for Cur was 86.93%, and 6.996% for drug-loading. Compared with the Cur propylene glycol solution, the in vitro release of Cur from Cur-PF presented the sustained-release property. The in vitro cytotoxicity assay showed that the IC50 values on MCF-7 cells for Cur-PF and free Cur in DMSO solution were 5.04μg/mL and 8.35μg/mL, while 2.52μg/mL and 8.27μg/mL on MCF-7/ADR cells. It could be concluded from the results that P123/F68 mixed micelles might serve as a potential nanocarrier to improve the solubility and biological activity of Cur. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Mesoporous silicas were synthesized by condensation of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) in the presence of Pluronic P123 as a structure-forming agent, and sucrose as an auxiliary agent, to investigate the effect of sucrose and aging temperature on the final properties, particularly structure-adsorption characteristics. Obtained materials have been characterized by XRD, nitrogen sorption measurements SEM-EDX, TEM, thermogravimetry, and FT-IR. The obtained materials have well-developed porous structure-values of the specific surface area ( S) are in the range of 300-950 m/g and the sizes of primary mesopores are in the range of 9-11 nm. It was established that S and ordering significantly decreases with an increasing content of sucrose in the initial mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the preparation and characterization of a polymeric micellar formulation of Carmofur (HCFU) with Pluronic P123. The polymeric micelles of HCFU with Pluronic P123 were prepared by thin-film hydration method. The characteristics of micelles were studied, including morphology, particle size distribution, entrapment efficiency, and drug loading; stability studies, DSC analysis, and in vitro release of HCFU from micelles were carried out. The results showed that the HCFU-loaded micelles had a mean size of approximately 30 nm with narrow size distribution and a spherical shape. The encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, and the drug concentration of the optimized nanoparticles were 65.76 ± 1.47%, 1.48 ± 0.08%, and 227.785 µg · mL−1 respectively. The stability test indicated that the leakage rate of HCFU from micelles reached 26.64% at ambient temperature after 6 months. To improve the stability of micelles, lyophilized HCFU-loaded micelles were prepared by adding sufficient quantum of trehalose into the homogeneous micelles suspension, and the obtained lyophilized micelles showed good redispersibility as well as homogeneity. The mean diameters of lyophilized micelles were 31.1 nm. The formation of HCFU-loaded micelles was validated by DSC, which indicated that HCFU was successfully encapsuled into micelles. HCFU was continuously released from Pluronic P123 micelles in release medium containing 0.05% Tween 80 and 0.1 mol · L−1 HCL solution for 48 hours at 37°C. These results indicated that Pluronic P123 micelles could improve the solubility of poorly soluble lipophilic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of pluronic P123 (P123) and pluronic F127 (F127) on intestinal P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and cytochrome P450 3A using the specific substrates rhodamine-123 (R-123) and midazolam, respectively. Caco-2 cells and everted gut sacs were used as models of intestinal mucosa to assess intestinal absorption of R-123, while rat intestinal microsomes were utilized to examine the effect of P123 and F127 on in vitro midazolam metabolism. P123 and F127 were observed to increase the intracellular accumulation of R-123 in Caco-2 cells in a dose-dependent manner. P123 significantly lowered the efflux ratio of R-123 at two concentrations in Caco-2 monolayers, whereas F127 lowered the efflux ratio only at 1%. Moreover, both pluronics markedly enhanced mucosal to serosal absorption of R-123 in excised ileum of rats. However, no significant difference in relative enzyme activity were observed between P123- or F127-treated and control groups, regardless of the concentrations of P123 and F127 studied. Collectively, these results obtained from the present study demonstrated that P123 and F127 were capable of inhibiting the intestinal P-gp activity, but had little or no effect on intestinal cytochrome P450 3A activity, indicating that P123 and F127 can potentially be used as pharmaceutical ingredients to improve the oral bioavailability of coadministered P-gp substrates via P-gp efflux pump inhibition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Fabrication of vesicles with the diameter of 4–30μm was achieved by mixing hydrophobic nonionic surfactant (Span 65) with a poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) block copolymer (Pluronic P123) in aqueous solutions at room temperature. Ring-shaped structure of the Pluronic P123/Span 65 mixture assemblies was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy. The presence of internal aqueous phase in the Pluronic P123/Span 65 mixture assemblies was determined by measuring the entrapment efficiency of calcein using fluorescence spectroscopy. On the other hand, Pluronic P123/Span 60 mixture system formed wire-like assemblies but not vesicles. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The synthesis of NiCoO spinel by several nanocasting strategies (i.e., multi-step nanocasting, one-step nanocasting and soft-templating), in which nickel and cobalt nitrates are used as precursors and Pluronic P123 as surfactant, is explored. First, in the multi-step nanocasting, the effect of the impregnation method (evaporation, solid-liquid and two-solvent) of the SBA-15 silica template on the morphology of NiCoO replica is investigated. The evaporation method seems to be the best choice to obtain mesoporous NiCoO powder which, after calcination at 375 °C and subsequent template removal, displays the highest surface area (93.1 m/g). We have also checked the feasibility of the one-step nanoscating approach for the synthesis of ordered NiCoO arrays, though this methodology entails severe difficulties, mainly related to the different decomposition temperature of the nitrate precursors and the P123 surfactant. Finally, randomly oriented, aggregated NiCoO nanoparticles are obtained by means of P123 surfactant-assisted soft-templating approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this work we prepared icosahedral gold particles and gold nanoplates using potassium tetrachloroaurate as precursor and poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(propylene oxide)-poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO-PPO-PEO) triblock copolymers as both reductant and capping agent under microwave irradiation. The products were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The size and shape of the resultant nanoparticles could be tuned by changing the chloride ion dosage and reaction temperature. With lower dosage of chloride ion, a lower proportion of irregular shaped nanoparticles and smaller gold decahedra and icosahedra were observed. Increasing the molecular ratio of [AuCl4]/[Cl−] and reaction temperature could increase the proportion of gold nanoplates in the final product. Typically when the reaction proceeded at 120°C with [AuCl4]/[Cl−]=10, >90% of the product was nanoplatelets. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this work, novel docetaxel (DTX) -loaded Tween 80-free Pluronic P123 (P123) micelles with improved therapeutic effect were developed. The freeze-dried DTX-loaded P123 micelles (DTX-micelles) were analyzed by HPLC, TEM and DLS to determine the DTX loading, micelle morphology, size, respectively. The in vitro cytotoxic activity of DTX-micelles in HepG2, A549 and malignant melanoma B16 cells were evaluated by MTT assay. The corresponding in vivo antitumor efficacy was assessed in Kunming mice bearing B16 tumor after intravenous administration. The DTX-loading and efficiency into the micelles were 2.12 ± 0.09% and 86.34 ± 3.32%, respectively. The DTX-micelles were spherical with a mean particle size of 50.7 nm and size distribution from 22 to 84 nm, which suggested that they should be able to selectively accumulate in solid tumors by means of EPR effect, with a zeta potential of -12.45 ± 3.24 mV. The in vitro release behavior of DTX from DTX-micelles followed the Weibull equation. Compared with Duopafei®, DTX-micelles showed higher cytotoxicity against HepG2 (P < 0.01), A549 (P < 0.05) and B16 (P < 0.01) cells. In addition, DTX-micelles exhibited remarkable antitumor activity and reduced toxicity on B16 tumor in vivo. The tumor inhibition rates (TIR) of DTX-micelles was 91.6% versus 76.3% of Duopafei® (P < 0.01). These results suggested that P123 micelles might be considered as an effective DTX delivery system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We report the preparation of mesoporous mixed metal oxides (MMOs) through a soft template method. Different amounts of P123 were used as structure directing agent to synthesize P123-templated Mg–Al layered double hydroxides (LDHs). After calcination of as-synthesized LDHs at 500°C, the ordered mesopores were obtained by removal of P123. The mesoporous Mg–Al MMOs fabricated by using 2wt% P123 exhibited a high specific surface area of 108.1m2/g, and wide distribution of pore size (2–18nm). An investigation of the “memory effect” of the mesoporous MMOs revealed that they were successfully reconstructed to ibuprofen intercalated LDHs having different gallery heights, which indicated different intercalation capacities. Due to their mesoporosity these unique MMOs have particular potential as drug or catalyst carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]