Controlled release of model drugs through a molecular recognition ion gating membrane in response to a specific ion signal.

A controlled-release device that responds to a specific molecular signal is an ideal goal in drug delivery and tissue engineering. A molecular recognition ion gating membrane, in which a copolymer of N-isopropylacrylamide and benzo[18]-crown-6-acrylamide was grafted onto the surface of the porous polyethylene film, was used to control the permeability of vitamin B12 and lysozyme in response to a specific ion signal. The observed response depended on the amount of grafted copolymer. When the grafting ratio was below 15%, the membrane pores opened by Ca2+ and closed by Ba2+. The permeability of model drugs became higher by opening of the pores. On the other hand, when the grafting ratio was above 15%, the properties of the membrane changed. The permeability of model drugs became lower by Ca2+ due to dehydration of the grafted copolymer. The opposite responses were observed at different grafting ratios.