Branched topological macromolecules, such as star-like, hyperbranched, dendritic and brush-like macromolecules, have many unique properties compared with their linear counterparts. Thus in recent years, when a combination of cyclodextrin (CD) possessing molecule cavities with topological structures is obtained, some important applications in various fields, such as molecular recognition, gene delivery and drug delivery system are endowed. In this article, the investigations and applications on the construction and self-assembly of cyclodextrin-based topological polymers are summarized according to the different topologies. The main content includes four aspects as following: (a) star-like cyclodextrin polymers, (b) hyperbranched cyclodextrin polymers, (c) dendritic cyclodextrin polymers, (d) cyclodextrin polymers with other topologies. In addition, new research trends are also expected based on the progress of this kind of polymer. Contents
1 Introduction
2 Cyclodextrin-based star-like polymers
2.1 Star-like polymers bonding with cyclodextrins
2.2 Star-like polymers from the self-assembly of cyclodextrins
3 Cyclodextrin-based hyperbranched polymers
3.1 Hyperbranched polymers from the self-assembly of cyclodextrins
3.2 Hyperbranched polymers bonding with cyclodextrins
4 Cyclodextrin-based dendritic polymers
4.1 Dendritic polymers bonding with cyclodextrins
4.2 Dendritic polymers from the self-assembly of cyclodextrins
5 Cyclodextrin-based polymers with other topologies
6 Conclusion and outlook