Synthesis of Redox-Responsive Core Cross-Linked Micelles Carrying Optically Active Helical Poly(phenyl isocyanide) Arms and Their Applications in Drug Delivery

In this manuscript, we designed and synthesized three core cross-linked micelles (M-5L, P-5L, and P-5D) with redox-responsive disulfide bonds in the core and carrying optically active helical polyisocyanide arms. Their arms were different in the helicity of the main chain and the chirality of the side groups. These micelles showed excellent redox-responsiveness to reducing agent. However, because of the different chiralities of the arms, the three micelles exhibited different performances in drug delivery and controlled release. The M-5L micelle carrying left-handed helical arms showed better therapeutic effect than the other two due to the rapid cell membrane permeability.