Near-infrared light-triggered dissociation of block copolymer micelles for controlled drug release

In this manuscript, a new near-infrared (NIR) light-breakable amphiphilic block copolymer containing light-sensitive triggering group on the hydrophobic block was developed. By encapsulating NIR dye cypate inside micelles of poly (N-succinyl-N'-4- (2-nitrobenzyloxy)-succinyl chitosan) and exposing the micellar solution to 765.9 nm light, the photo-cleavage reaction was activated and leading to the dissociation of micelles and release of co-loaded hydrophobic species. The UV-vis absorption spectra, fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) spectra of micelles were characterized. Triggered burst release of the payload upon NIR irradiation and subsequent degradation of the micelles were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). This system represents a general and efficient method to circumvent the need for UV or visible light excitation that is a common drawback for light-responsive polymeric systems developed for potential biomedical applications.