Cerium–catalyzed synthesis of PLGA and PLGA–PEG copolymers for advanced nanoparticle engineering

Cristina Casadidio – Assistant Professor, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino; Dario Gentili – Postdoctoral Researcher, School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino; Giacomo Di Giambattista – PhD Student, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino; Gabriele Lupidi – Postdoctoral Researcher, School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino; Genny Pastore – Postdoctoral Researcher, School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino; Francesca Stella – Postdoctoral Researcher, Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino; Maria Sabbieti – Professor, School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino; Dimitrios Agas – Assistant Professor, School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino; Enrico Marcantoni – Professor, School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino; Serena Gabrielli – Associate Professor, School of Science and Technology, University of Camerino; Roberta Censi – Associate Professor, School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino

Introduction: The biodegradability and biocompatibility of poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) make it a favoured choice for nano drug delivery systems. The conventionally used organotin species for the ring opening polymerization (ROP) synthesis of PLGA also pose regulatory and biological challenges¹. To tackle these challenges, cerium (Ce)-based compounds were replaced as cost-effective and sustainable catalysts for ROP of PLGA synthesis. The subsequent nanoparticles (NPs) were formulated with a flow-controlled microfluidics platform.