Propagation of Enzyme-Induced Surface Events inside Polymer Nanoassemblies for a Fast and Tunable Response

Abstract

We report a new molecular design strategy that allows for the propagation of surface enzymatic events inside a supramolecular assembly for accelerated molecular release. The approach addresses a key shortcoming encountered with many of the currently available enzyme-induced disassembly strategies, which rely on the unimer-aggregate equilibria of amphiphilic assemblies. The enzymatic response of the host to predictably tune the kinetics of guest-molecule release can be programmed by controlling substrate accessibility through electrostatic complexation with a complementary polymer. Accelerated guest release in response to the enzyme is shown to be accomplished by a cooperative mechanism of enzyme-triggered supramolecular host disassembly and host reorganization.

Keywords: electrostatic complexes; enzyme-responsive polymers; host-guest systems; self-assembly; self-immolation.