Abstract
Self-assemblies of block copolymers have received considerable attention from both fundamental and applied standpoints. These are formed in selective solvents based on the different solubilities of constitutent segments; for example, hydrophilic and hydrophobic segments in an aqueous medium. Although the assemblies can take various morphologies including spherical micelle, rod and lamellar structures, spherical micelles have been most extensively investigated. Polymeric micelles have deca-nanometric-scaled diameter and are characterized by their unique core-corona structure. This review highlights the physicochemical characterization of the polymeric micelles and their applications as a carrieres in drug delivery systems. Further, novel polymeric micelle formation through electrostatic interaction in aqueous medium is reviewed from the standpoint of their utility as bioreactors, diagnostic tools and non-viral gene vectors.
