Light-Induced Double Drug Release with Improved Efficiency in Micelles

Light-responsive photocages are attractive tools for controlled drug delivery, yet achieving efficient photo-release in aqueous media remains challenging. Herein, a symmetrical BODIPY bis(oxime ester) derivative (BD-diOE) was developed for visible-light-triggered release of valproic acid (VPA). The study confirmed a sequential photo-uncaging process resulting in the release of two equivalents of VPA. To improve aqueous performance, BD-diOE was encapsulated into Pluronic F127 micelles (BD-diOE@F127). Quantitative analysis revealed that BD-diOE@F127 in water releases approximately 30% more VPA than BD-diOE in a methanol-mixed water solvent under identical irradiation conditions. Moreover, BD-diOE@F127 exhibited pronounced light-dependent in vitro cytotoxicity. These results demonstrate that the combination of symmetric molecular design and micelle formulation provides a promising platform for photo-responsive biomaterials and controlled drug delivery applications.