mPEG-PLGA
Synonyms: methoxy polyethylene glycol-Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)
PLGA Mw:1,000-200,000 Da
PEG Type: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000
PLGA spec: 50:50, 75:25, 65:35, 85:15
Minimal order quantity: 10 gram
Mpeg-PLGA
Synonyms: methoxy polyethylene glycol-Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)
PLGA Mw:1,000-200,000 Da
PEG Type: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000
PLGA spec: 50:50, 75:25, 65:35, 85:15
Minimal order quantity: 10 gram
mPEG-PLGA is an advanced amphiphilic block copolymer meticulously designed for drug delivery and nanotechnology applications. It combines the biocompatible and biodegradable properties of a hydrophobic PLGA core with the hydrophilic, protein-resistant “stealth” properties of a covalently bonded mPEG shell. This unique core-shell structure allows for the self-assembly of highly stable nanoparticles in aqueous solutions, making it the gold-standard material for encapsulating hydrophobic APIs. The mPEG corona effectively shields the nanoparticle from the immune system, reducing opsonization and clearance by the reticuloendothelial system (RES), which dramatically increases systemic circulation time.
We provide a comprehensive range of mPEG-PLGA copolymers to give you precise control over your formulation’s characteristics. Our catalog includes various block lengths, allowing you to select the optimal molecular weight for both the mPEG segment (e.g., 2kDa, 5kDa) and the PLGA segment. Furthermore, you can specify the lactide-to-glycolide (L:G) ratio within the PLGA block to precisely tune the drug release profile and degradation rate. Each polymer is synthesized to ensure a low polydispersity index (PDI), guaranteeing the batch-to-batch consistency required for reproducible research and development.
The applications for mPEG-PLGA are at the forefront of modern medicine and biotechnology. It is the polymer of choice for developing long-circulating nanoparticles for targeted cancer therapies, delivering siRNA and other genetic materials, and creating advanced controlled-release formulations. Its utility also extends to medical imaging as a carrier for contrast agents and in sophisticated tissue engineering scaffolds. By providing this high-purity, well-characterized polymer, we empower researchers to develop safer, more effective, and clinically relevant therapeutic systems.
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
The primary advantage is the “stealth” property conferred by the hydrophilic mPEG block. When formed into nanoparticles, the mPEG chains create a protective, water-loving shell that helps the particle evade the body’s immune system (opsonization). This leads to significantly longer blood circulation times, allowing more time for the nanoparticle to reach its target, which is critical for systemic drug delivery applications.
The choice of solvent depends on your specific application and the polymer’s composition. However, common and effective solvents for mPEG-PLGA include Dichloromethane (DCM), Chloroform, Acetonitrile (ACN), Tetrahydrofuran (THF), and Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO). For nanoparticle preparation, a water-miscible solvent like Acetone or Acetonitrile is often preferred. We recommend starting with a small amount to test solubility before dissolving an entire batch.
It’s a balance based on your goals:
mPEG Block (e.g., 2kDa, 5kDa): A higher molecular weight mPEG creates a denser, more effective stealth corona, leading to longer circulation times.
PLGA Block: A higher molecular weight PLGA block creates a larger hydrophobic core, which can increase drug loading capacity for hydrophobic drugs and generally slows down the degradation and drug release rate.
You must balance the need for a good stealth effect with the desired drug load and release kinetics.
The most common and straightforward method is nanoprecipitation (also known as solvent displacement). This involves dissolving the mPEG-PLGA and the hydrophobic drug in a water-miscible organic solvent, then adding this solution dropwise into water under stirring. The polymer will spontaneously self-assemble into core-shell nanoparticles. Emulsion-solvent evaporation methods are also widely used.
Yes, we offer specific “Pre-Clinical / Low Endotoxin Grade” mPEG-PLGA for this purpose. These batches undergo additional purification to ensure extremely low levels of bacterial endotoxins (typically < 0.5 EU/mg), which is a critical requirement for any material intended for injection in animal models. Please ensure you select this grade when ordering for in vivo applications.
To prevent hydrolysis and maintain polymer integrity, mPEG-PLGA should be stored at -20°C in a tightly sealed container, preferably under an inert atmosphere (like argon or nitrogen). It is also highly recommended to store it with a desiccant to protect it from moisture. Before use, allow the container to warm to room temperature before opening to prevent water condensation on the cold polymer.
Every order is shipped with a batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (CoA). This document provides detailed characterization data, including the molecular weight (Mw) of each block as determined by NMR and/or GPC, the Polydispersity Index (PDI), and the confirmed Lactide:Glycolide ratio.
The drug loading capacity (LC%) and encapsulation efficiency (EE%) are not fixed values; they depend heavily on several factors. These include the physicochemical properties of your drug (especially its hydrophobicity), the molecular weight of the PLGA block (a larger block provides more volume for the drug), the drug-to-polymer ratio you use during formulation, and the specific fabrication method you employ. However, for hydrophobic small molecule drugs formulated into nanoparticles via nanoprecipitation or emulsion, encapsulation efficiencies can typically range from 20% to over 80%. The final drug loading in the purified nanoparticles often falls between 1-10% by weight. Optimizing the drug-to-polymer feed ratio is a key step in maximizing your final drug load.