A thermal triple-responsive polymer, along with methods of its formation and use, is generally provided. The thermal triple-responsive polymer can comprise poly[(2-(pyridin-2-yldisulfanyl)-co-[poly(ethylene glycol)]-co-[N-isopropyl methacrylamide], which contains both disulfide bonds and ester bonds that are labile to high redox potential and acidic pH, respectively, and temperature sensitive segments. The thermal triple-responsive polymer can be modified with 4-methoxybenzoic acid to endow tumor targeting effect. Nanoparticles and nanogels that include such a thermal triple-responsive polymer are also provided, along with their methods of formation and use.
