Multicompartment polymer capsules

The creation of nano- or micro-particles with separated domains has generated significant attention in the field of biomedicine, cosmetics, and chemical synthesis. Compared with phospholipid-based multicompartment vesicles, the introduction of polymers into multicompartment capsules can enhance their mechanical stability and broaden their applications. In this review, we highlight recent advances in polymer-based multicompartment capsules, including construction strategies (e.g., self-assembly, layer-by-layer assembly, and emulsion-mediated assembly) as well as their applications (e.g., drug delivery and micro-reactors). In addition, we also summarize the challenges associated with controllability and functionality of multicompartment capsules as well as future directions and developments in the field. This review is expected to help unravel fundamental understandings in artificial cells and guide the design of polymer multicompartment capsules for tailored applications.