Diol or Hydrogen Peroxide-responsive Micellar Systems and Their Rheological Properties

Abstract

External stimuli-responsive worm-like micelles (WLMs) have the potential for a wide range of applications. In particular, sugar (a polyol compound)-responsive WLMs have the potential for use in smartdrug release systems. Phenylboronic acid (PBA) functions as a cis-diol sensor in a similar manner it does as a glucose sensor. Thus, WLMs, primarily composed of surfactants and PBA, are expected to function as cis-diol-responsive viscoelastic systems. PBA also reacts irreversibly with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂ ) and is converted into phenol and boric acid. H₂O₂ is one of reactive oxygen species crucial for several physiological processes. Therefore, H₂O₂ -responsive WLMs have the potential for various applications. In this review, we describe cis-diol- and H₂O₂ -responsive micellar systems composed of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide and PBA moieties that shift their viscosities in response to stimuli.

graphical abstract