Copolymers for stabilizing emulsions and/or forming interfacial films, and methods thereof
US12296045B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 22, 2020 |
| Grant date | May 13, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 4, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61K9/5031
- WIPO fieldPharmaceuticals
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The present invention generally relates to polymers and, in particular, to copolymers for stabilizing, e.g., emulsions or droplets. In certain aspects, the copolymers may comprise a relatively hydrophobic monomer and a relatively hydrophilic monomer polymerized together (e.g., randomly) to form the copolymer. Examples of hydrophobic monomers include methacrylates and vinylphenyls; examples of hydrophilic monomers include boronic acids or acid derivatives. Surprisingly, such random copolymers may act as surfactants, e.g., stabilizing droplets within the emulsion. In addition, in some cases, an interfacial film may be produced by exposing the copolymer to a complexing molecule, such as a polyol, that can complex with the copolymer to form the film. In some cases, the film may at least partially surround a droplet, and in certain embodiments, the film may be sufficiently sturdy such that the droplet can be removed from the emulsion. Other aspects include methods of making or using such copolymers (for example, for containing cells in droplets), kits involving such copolymers, or the like.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.