Abstract: A novel molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) coated metal organic framework (MOF) containing a liquid crystalline (LC) monomer is successfully synthesized for use in drug delivery systems. In this study, [Cu3(BTC)2(H2O)3] n (HKUST-1) is chosen as the MOF support owing to its large pore volume, good diffusion, and thermostability. 4-Methyl phenyl dicyclohexyl ethylene (MPDE) is used as a LC monomer to increase the solvent-responsive floating of the composite. The preparation conditions of HKUST-1@LC-MIP with capecitabine (CAPE) as a template, including the types of functional monomer, the ratio between template and functional monomer, as well as the content of MPDE, are investigated. Characterizations of the HKUST-1@LC-MIP are explored using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscope images, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, and nitrogen adsorption. Compared to the HKUST-1, the HKUST-1@LC-MIP shows better stability in aqueous solution. In vitro release studies of CAPE of HKUST-1@LC-MIP show zero-order release of profiles at the loaded concentration of 500 μg mL-1. From in vivo pharmacokinetic studies, the HKUST-1@LC-MIP displays higher relative bioavailability. It turns out that the HKUST-1@LC-MIP possesses the properties of controlled release and has the potentials for oral administration
Author keywords: capecitabine, drug delivery, HKUST-1, liquid crystal monomer, Molecularly imprinted polymer