Galactose-Containing Amphiphiles Prepared with a Lipophilic Radical Initiator

Novel amphiphiles which contain galactose residues (degree of polymerization (DP) = 6.2, 10, and 15) were prepared by telomerization of 2-[(methacryloyloxy)ethyl]-beta-D-galactopyranoside using a lipophilic radical initiator. The galactose-carrying amphiphile incorporated in a liposome was recognized by a lectin from Ricinus communis (RCA120), which was proven by the increase in turbidity of the liposome suspension after mixing with the lectin. The recognition was largely affected by the degree of polymerization and the surface density of the amphiphile. The amphiphile would be useful as a component of the drug delivery system to hepatocytes.