Mixed micelles containing poly(L-histidine)-poly(ethylene glycol) block
copolymer and poly(L-lactic acid)-poly(ethylene glycol) block copolymer
are a pH-sensitive drug carrier that release the drug in an acidic
microenvironment, but not in the blood. Since the microenvironment of
solid tumors is acidic, these mixed micelles are useful for treating
cancer, including those cancers exhibiting multidrug resistance.
Targeting ligands, such as folate, can also be attached to the mixed
micelles for enhancing drug delivery into cells. Methods of treating a
warm-blooded animal with such a drug are disclosed.