This work aimed at the synthesis of novel type of targetable polymeric conjugates with a sugar moiety (galactose) with potential application for liver-specific drug delivery. Simple and effective synthesis of poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide)-galactose conjugate and poly(DL-lactide-co-glycolide)-co-poly(ethylene glycol)-10%-Triblock-galactose conjugate by esterification of the end carboxyl groups has been reported. Spherical hydrophilic nanoparticles with elevated galactose content on the surface were prepared from these polymeric conjugates, and their physical properties were determined by DLS, SEM, XPS and DSC. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.