Fig. 7

Schematic presentation of PEG-PA, PEG-PAO, and PEG-PAS self-assemblies in water. Blue, gold, red, and dark red curves indicate PEG, PA, oleoyl group, and stearoyl group, respectively. m and n are 45 and 16, respectively. C18 modification of PA induces conformational transition of PA from α helix-to-β sheet and increases micelle size of the polymers in water. Oleoyl and stearoyl groups provide rigidity and flexibility, respectively, of the core of the micelles. Therefore, the oleoyl group interferes with gelation, whereas the stearoyl group facilitates gelation