Glycopolymer-Based Nanostructures Prepared through Reaction-Induced Self-Assembly (RISA): Fabrication, Regulation and Bioapplication

Glycopolymer-based nanostructures (glyco-nanostructures) have garnered significant interest in biomedicine due to their exceptional biocompatibility and programmable multivalent recognition. However, traditional fabrication methods driven by physical forces face critical limitations in reproducibility and solid content. To overcome these challenges, chemical reaction-induced self-assembly (RISA) has emerged as a transformative alternative. In this review, we introduce RISA as a generalized framework encompassing various reaction-driven processes, including polymerization, deprotection, enzymatic catalysis, and interfacial induction, which enable the quantitative, in situ preparation of well-defined glyco-nanoassemblies at high concentrations. While RISA is a universal strategy, this review specifically highlights its application to glycopolymers. We systematically summarize recent advances in fabrication methodologies, underlying chemical mechanisms, and expanding biomedical applications. By bridging chemical dynamics with nanostructural function, this work establishes a foundational framework for the rational design of next-generation glyconanomaterials, aiming to stimulate further innovation and clinical translation in this evolving field.