Supramolecular Nanocontainer with the Mithochondria-targeting Function Based on a Calixresorcine Cavitand

To create a mitochondria-targeted drug delivery system (MT DDS), a calixresorcine cavitand modified with triphenylphosphonium units (C11-TPP) and its polymer complex with polyacrylic acid (PAA) were synthesized. An optimal composition of the polymer complex and its parameters were found. It was shown that PAA reduced the hemotoxicity of C11-TPP and its toxicity to normal cells (Chang liver). However, the toxicity of C11-TPP+PAA complex against tumor cells (M-HeLa) was higher than that of the cavitand. Moreover, the mitochondria-dependent apoptotic pathway of M-HeLa cells was found in the presence of C11-TPP+PAA complex, indicating its potential as MT DDS.