Abstract
We synthesized a series of mPEG-L-PA diblock copolymers and investigated the hydrophobic block length effect on the secondary structure influencing the nanostructure of the self-assembled amphiphilic copolymers, the thermosensitivity of the hydrogels in aqueous solution. Poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether-peptide (mPEG-peptide) hydrogels consist of a mPEG and peptide block, both of which have been shown to exhibit excellent cell compatibility and low toxicity alone and as a block copolymer. Taken together, thermosensitive mPEG-peptide hydrogels are attractive candidates for drug delivery applications. In this study, we propose the use of a thermosensitive mPEG-peptide hydrogel for drug delivery with encapsulating 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). Incorporation and release of these molecules will be evaluated in vitro as proof of concept for drug encapsulation. Future work will involve the injection of hydrogel for the evaluation of toxicity and compatibility.