Defect Regulation Strategy of Porous Persistent Phosphors for Multiple and Dynamic Information Encryption

Optical encryption technologies based on persistent luminescence material have currently drawn increasing attention due to the distinctive and long-lived optical properties, which enable multi-dimensional and dynamic optical information encryption to improve the security level. However, the controlled synthesis of persistent phosphors remains largely unexplored and it is still a great challenge to regulate the structure for optical properties optimization, which inevitably sets significant limitations on the practical application of persistent luminescent materials. Herein, a controlled synthesis method is proposed based on defect structure regulation and a series of porous persistent phosphors is obtained with different luminous intensities, lifetime, and wavelengths. By simply using diverse templates during the sol-gel process, the oxygen vacancy defects structures are successfully regulated to improve the optical properties. Additionally, the obtained series of porous Al2O3 are utilized for multi-color and dynamic optical information encryption to increase the security level. Overall, the proposed defect regulation strategy in this work is expected to provide a general and facile method for optimizing the optical properties of persistent luminescent materials, paving new ways for broadening their applications in multi-dimensional and dynamic information encryption.

Characterization of Drug with Good Glass-Forming Ability Loaded Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles and Its Impact Toward in vitro and in vivo Studies

Solid oral dosage forms are mostly preferred in pharmaceutical formulation development due to patient convenience, ease of product handling, high throughput, low manufacturing costs, with good physical and chemical stability. However, 70% of drug candidates have poor water solubility leading to compromised bioavailability. This phenomenon occurs because drug molecules are often absorbed after dissolving in gastrointestinal fluid. To address this limitation, delivery systems designed to improve the pharmacokinetics of drug molecules are needed to allow controlled release and target-specific delivery. Among various strategies, amorphous formulations show significantly high potential, particularly for molecules with solubility-limited dissolution rates. The ease of drug molecules to amorphized is known as their glass-forming ability (GFA). Specifically, drug molecules categorized into class III based on the Taylor classification have a low recrystallization tendency and high GFA after cooling, with substantial "glass stability" when heated. In the last decades, the application of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as drug delivery systems (DDS) has gained significant attention in various investigations and the pharmaceutical industry. This is attributed to the unique physicochemical properties of MSNs, including high loading capacity, recrystallization inhibition, excellent biocompatibility, and easy functionalization. Therefore, this study aimed to discuss the current state of good glass former drug loaded mesoporous silica and shows its impact on the pharmaceutical properties including dissolution and physical stability, along with in vivo study. The results show the importance of determining whether mesoporous structures are needed in amorphous formulations to improve the pharmaceutical properties of drug with a favorable GFA.

Rotenone nanoparticles based on mesoporous silica to improve the stability, translocation and insecticidal activity of rotenone

Nanotechnology has been widely applied for pesticide carriers, which is an important way to improve the utilization, stability, and sustained release of pesticides. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are a nanomaterial with adjustable particle and pore sizes, with a high specific surface area and good biocompatibility. Rotenone is a non-systemic botanical insecticide that is easily degraded in the environment. We used a modified soft-template method to prepare MSNs, in which rotenone was loaded using the solvent evaporation method. The prepared rotenone nanopesticide based on mesoporous silica showed considerable drug loading rates of 33.2%. Moreover, the prepared rotenone nanoparticles showed improved photostability and sustained release behavior, which improved the translocation of rotenone in tomato plants. Finally, the rotenone nanoparticles displayed superior insecticidal activity compared to traditional preparations. In summary, the rotenone nanopesticide improved the persistence and utilization rates of rotenone. These findings are of significance in reducing pesticide usage, mitigating environmental pollution, and ensuring food safety.

Investigating BioCaRGOS, a Sol-Gel Matrix for the Stability of Heme Proteins under Enzymatic Degradation and Low pH

There have been significant advances in the development of vaccines for the prevention of various infectious diseases in the last few decades. These vaccines are mainly composed of proteins and nucleic acids. Poor handling and storage, exposure to high temperatures that lead to enzymatic degradation, pH variation, and various other stresses can denature the proteins or nucleic acids present in any vaccine formulation. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain a proper environment to preserve the integrity of biospecimens. To overcome these challenges, we report a practical and user-friendly approach for sol-gels called "BioCaRGOS" that can stabilize heme proteins not only in the presence of degrading enzymes and acidic pH but simultaneously maintain stability at room temperature. Heme proteins, such as myoglobin and cytochrome c, have been used for this study.

Design and fabrication of intracellular therapeutic cargo delivery systems based on nanomaterials: current status and future perspectives

Intracellular cargo delivery, the introduction of small molecules, proteins, and nucleic acids into a specific targeted site in a biological system, is an important strategy for deciphering cell function, directing cell fate, and reprogramming cell behavior. With the advancement of nanotechnology, many researchers use nanoparticles (NPs) to break through biological barriers to achieving efficient targeted delivery in biological systems, bringing a new way to realize efficient targeted drug delivery in biological systems. With a similar size to many biomolecules, NPs possess excellent physical and chemical properties and a certain targeting ability after functional modification on the surface of NPs. Currently, intracellular cargo delivery based on NPs has emerged as an important strategy for genome editing regimens and cell therapy. Although researchers can successfully deliver NPs into biological systems, many of them are delivered very inefficiently and are not specifically targeted. Hence, the development of efficient, target-capable, and safe nanoscale drug delivery systems to deliver therapeutic substances to cells or organs is a major challenge today. In this review, on the basis of describing the research overview and classification of NPs, we focused on the current research status of intracellular cargo delivery based on NPs in biological systems, and discuss the current problems and challenges in the delivery process of NPs in biological systems.

Tuning Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles in Novel Avenues of Cancer Therapy

The global menace of cancer has led to an increased death toll in recent years. The constant evolution of cancer therapeutics with novel delivery systems has paved the way for translation of innovative therapeutics from bench to bedside. This review explains the significance of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as delivery vehicles with particular emphasis on cancer therapy, including novel opportunities for biomimetic therapeutics and vaccine delivery. Parameters governing MSN synthesis, therapeutic agent loading characteristics, along with tuning of MSN toward cancer cell specificity have been explained. The advent of MSN in nanotheranostics and its potential in forming nanocomposites for imaging purposes have been illustrated. Additionally, various hurdles encountered during the bench to bedside translation have been explained along with potential avenues to circumvent them. This also opens up new horizons in drug delivery, which could be useful to researchers in the years to come.

Functional Nanoparticles for Enhanced Cancer Therapy

Cancer is the leading cause of death in people worldwide. The conventional therapeutic approach is mainly based on chemotherapy, which has a series of side effects. Compared with traditional chemotherapy drugs, nanoparticle-based delivery of anti-cancer drugs possesses a few attractive features. The application of nanotechnology in an interdisciplinary manner in the biomedical field has led to functional nanoparticles achieving much progress in cancer therapy. Nanoparticles have been involved in the diagnosis and targeted and personalized treatment of cancer. For example, different nano-drug strategies, including endogenous and exogenous stimuli-responsive, surface conjugation, and macromolecular encapsulation for nano-drug systems, have successfully prevented tumor procession. The future for functional nanoparticles is bright and promising due to the fast development of nanotechnology. However, there are still some challenges and limitations that need to be considered. Based on the above contents, the present article analyzes the progress in developing functional nanoparticles in cancer therapy. Research gaps and promising strategies for the clinical application are discussed.

A review on the latest developments of mesoporous silica nanoparticles as a promising platform for diagnosis and treatment of cancer

Cancer is the second cause of human mortality after cardiovascular disease around the globe. Conventional cancer therapies are chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. In fact, due to the lack of absolute specificity and high drug concentrations, early recognition and treatment of cancer with conventional approaches have become challenging issues in the world. To mitigate against the limitations of conventional cancer chemotherapy, nanomaterials have been developed. Nanomaterials exhibit particular properties that can overcome the drawbacks of conventional therapies such as lack of specificity, high drug concentrations, and adverse drug reactions. Among nanocarriers, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have gained increasing attention due to their well-defined pore size and structure, high surface area, good biocompatibility and biodegradability, ease of surface modification, and stable aqueous dispersions. This review highlights the current progress with the use of MSNs for the delivery of chemotherapeutic agents for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Various stimuli-responsive gatekeepers, which endow the MSNs with on-demand drug delivery, surface modification strategies for targeting purposes, and multifunctional MSNs utilized in drug delivery systems (DDSs) are also addressed. Also, the capability of MSNs as flexible imaging platforms is considered. In addition, physicochemical attributes of MSNs and their effects on cancer therapy with a particular focus on recent studies is emphasized. Moreover, major challenges to the use of MSNs for cancer therapy, biosafety and cytotoxicity aspects of MSNs are discussed.

Biocompatible Supramolecular Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as the Next-Generation Drug Delivery System

Supramolecular mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) offer distinct properties as opposed to micron-sized silica particles in terms of their crystal structure, morphology–porosity, toxicity, biological effects, and others. MSN biocompatibility has touched the pharmaceutical realm to exploit its robust synthesis pathway for delivery of various therapeutic molecules including macromolecules and small-molecule drugs. This article provides a brief review of MSN history followed by special emphasis on the influencing factors affecting morphology–porosity characteristics. Its applications as the next-generation drug delivery system (NGDDS) particularly in a controlled release dosage form via an oral drug delivery system are also presented and shall be highlighted as oral delivery is the most convenient route of drug administration with the economical cost of development through to scale-up for clinical trials and market launch.

Enhancing the efficacy of albendazole for liver cancer treatment using mesoporous silica nanoparticles: an in vitro study

The present study aimed to synthesize albendazole (ABZ)-loaded Mobil Composition of Matter No. 41 (MCM-41 NPs) to increase the efficacy of the drug against liver cancer. ABZ was loaded into MCM-41 NPs, and after in vitro characterization, such as size, size distribution, zeta potential, morphology, chemical composition, thermal profile, drug release, surface and pore volume, and pore size, their biological effects were evaluated using 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) cell migration assays. The results demonstrated that monodispersed and spherical NPs with a size of 220 ± 11.5 and 293 ± 8.7 nm, for MCM-41 NPs and ABZ-loaded MCM-41 NPs, respectively, and drug loading efficiency of 30 % were synthesized. ABZ was loaded physically into MCM-41 NPs, leading to a decrease in surface volume, pore size, and pore volume. Also, MCM-41 NPs could increase the cytotoxicity effects of ABZ by 2.9-fold (IC₅₀ = 23 and 7.9 µM for ABZ and ABZ-loaded MCM-41 NPs, respectively). In addition, both ABZ and ABZ-loaded MCM-41 NPs could restrain the cell migration by 12 %. Overall, the results of the present study suggest evaluating the potency of MCM-41 NPs, as a potent nanoplatform, for ABZ delivery in vivo environment.

See also the Graphical Abstract(Fig. 1).

Genetic and Covalent Protein Modification Strategies to Facilitate Intracellular Delivery

Protein-based therapeutics represent a rapidly growing segment of approved disease treatments. Successful intracellular delivery of proteins is an important precondition for expanded in vivo and in vitro applications of protein therapeutics. Direct modification of proteins and peptides for improved cytosolic translocation are a promising method of increasing delivery efficiency and expanding the viability of intracellular protein therapeutics. In this Review, we present recent advances in both synthetic and genetic protein modifications for intracellular delivery. Active endocytosis-based and passive internalization pathways are discussed, followed by a review of modification methods for improved cytosolic delivery. After establishing how proteins can be modified, general strategies for facilitating intracellular delivery, such as chemical supercharging or inclusion of cell-penetrating motifs, are covered. We then outline protein modifications that promote endosomal escape. We finally examine the delivery of two potential classes of therapeutic proteins, antibodies and associated antibody fragments, and gene editing proteins, such as cas9.

Anisotropic and Amphiphilic Mesoporous Core-Shell Silica Microparticles Provide Chemically Selective Environments for Simultaneous Delivery of Curcumin and Quercetin

Porous silica materials are often used for drug delivery. However, systems for simultaneous delivery of multiple drugs are scarce. Here we show that anisotropic and amphiphilic dumbbell core-shell silica microparticles with chemically selective environments can entrap and release two drugs simultaneously. The dumbbells consist of a large dense lobe and a smaller hollow hemisphere. Electron microscopy images show that the shells of both parts have mesoporous channels. In a simple etching process, the properly adjusted stirring speed and the application of ammonium fluoride as etching agent determine the shape and the surface anisotropy of the particles. The surface of the dense lobe and the small hemisphere differ in their zeta potentials consistent with differences in dye and drug entrapment. Confocal Raman microscopy and spectroscopy show that the two polyphenols curcumin (Cur) and quercetin (QT) accumulate in different compartments of the particles. The overall drug entrapment efficiency of Cur plus QT is high for the amphiphilic particles but differs widely between Cur and QT compared to controls of core-shell silica microspheres and uniformly charged dumbbell microparticles. Furthermore, Cur and QT loaded microparticles show different cancer cell inhibitory activities. The highest activity is detected for the dual drug loaded amphiphilic microparticles in comparison to the controls. In the long term, amphiphilic particles may open up new strategies for drug delivery.

Recent Advances in Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Targeted Drug Delivery applications

Nanotechnology provides the means to design and fabricate delivery vehicles capable of overcoming physiologically imposed obstacles and undesirable side effects of systemic drug delivery. This protocol allows maximal targeting effectiveness and therefore enhances therapeutic efficiency. In recent years, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) have sparked interest in the nanomedicine research community, particularly for their promising applications in cancer treatment. The intrinsic physio-chemical stability, facile functionalization, high surface area, low toxicity, and great loading capacity for a wide range of chemotherapeutic agents make MSNPs very appealing candidates for controllable drug delivery systems. Importantly, the peculiar nanostructures of MSNPs enabled them to serve as an effective drug, gene, protein, and antigen delivery vehicle for a variety of therapeutic regimens. For these reasons, in this review article, we underscore the recent progress in the design and synthesis of MSNPs and the parameters influencing their characteristic features and activities. In addition, the process of absorption, dissemination, and secretion by injection or oral management of MSNPs are also discussed, as they are key directions for the potential utilization of MSNPs. Factors influencing the in vivo fate of MSNPs will also be highlighted, with the main focus on particle size, morphology, porosity, surface functionality, and oxidation. Given that combining other functional materials with MSNPs may increase their biological compatibility, monitor drug discharge, or improve absorption by tumor cells coated MSNPs; these aspects are also covered and discussed herein.

In Vivo Tracking of the Degradation of Mesoporous Silica through 89 Zr Radio-Labeled Core-Shell Nanoparticles

While mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are extensively studied as high-potential drug delivery platforms, the successful clinical translation of these nanocarriers strongly depends on their biodistribution, biodegradation, and elimination patterns in vivo. Here, a novel method is reported to follow the in vivo degradation of MSNs by tracking a radioactive label embedded in the silica structure. Core-shell silica nanoparticles (NPs) with a dense core and a mesoporous shell are labeled with low quantities of the positron emitter ⁸⁹ Zr, either in the dense core or in the mesoporous shell. In vivo positron emission tomography imaging and ex vivo organ measurements reveal a remarkable difference in the ⁸⁹ Zr biodistribution between the shell-labeled and the core-labeled NPs. Release of the radiotracer from shell-labeled NPs is used as a probe of the extent of silica dissolution, and a prompt release of the radioisotope is observed, with partial excretion already in the first 2 h post injection, and a slower accumulation in bones over time. On the other hand, when ⁸⁹ Zr is embedded in the nanoparticle core, the biodistribution remains largely unchanged during the first 6 h. These findings indicate that MSNs have fast, hour-scale, degradation kinetics in vivo.

Insights into the intraparticle morphology of dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles from electron tomographic reconstructions

HYPOTHESIS

Although many synthetic pathways allow to fine-tune the morphology of dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (DMSNs), the control of their particle size and mesopore diameter remains a challenge. Our study focuses on either increasing the mean particle size or adjusting the pore size distribution, changing only one parameter (particle or pore size) at a time. The dependence of key morphological features (porosity; pore shape and pore dimensions) on radial distance from the particle center has been investigated in detail.

EXPERIMENTS

Three-dimensional reconstructions of the particles obtained by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) tomography were adapted as geometrical models for the quantification of intraparticle morphologies by radial porosity and chord length distribution analyses. Structural properties of the different synthesized DMSNs have been complementary characterized using TEM, SEM, nitrogen physisorption, and dynamic light scattering.

FINDINGS

The successful independent tuning of particle and pore sizes of the DMSNs could be confirmed by conventional analysis methods. Unique morphological features, which influence the uptake and release of guest molecules in biomedical applications, were uncovered from analyzing the STEM tomography-based reconstructions. It includes the quantification of structural hierarchy, identification of intrawall openings and pores, as well as the distinction of pore shapes (conical vs. cylindrical).

Review of the Mechanism of Nanocarriers and Technological Developments in the Field of Nanoparticles for Applications in Cancer Theragnostics

Cancer cannot be controlled by the usage of drugs alone, and thus, nanotechnology is an important technique that can provide the drug with an impetus to act more effectively. There is adequate availability of anticancer drugs that are classified as alkylating agents, hormones, or antimetabolites. Nanoparticle (NP) carriers increase the residence time of the drug, thereby enhancing the survival rate of the drug, which otherwise gets washed off owing to the small size of the drug particles by the excretory system. For example, for enhancing the circulation, a coating of nonfouling polymers like PEG and dextran is done. Famous drugs such as doxorubicin (DOX) are commonly encapsulated inside the nanocomposite. The various classes of nanoparticles are used to enhance drug delivery by aiding it to fight against the tumor. Targeted therapy aims to attack the cells with features common to the cancer cells while minimizing damage to the normal cell, and these therapies work in one in four ways. Some block the cancer cells from reproducing newer cells, others release toxic substances to kill the cancer cells, some stimulate the immune system to destroy the cancer cells, and some block the growth of more blood vessels around cancer cells, which starve the cells of the nutrients, which is needed for their growth. This review aims to testify the advancements nanotechnology has brought in cancer therapy, and its statements are supported with recent research findings and clinical trial results.

CRISPR-Cas technology in corn: a new key to unlock genetic knowledge and create novel products

Since its inception in 2012, CRISPR-Cas technologies have taken the life science community by storm. Maize genetics research is no exception. Investigators around the world have adapted CRISPR tools to advance maize genetics research in many ways. The principle application has been targeted mutagenesis to confirm candidate genes identified using map-based methods. Researchers are also developing tools to more effectively apply CRISPR-Cas technologies to maize because successful application of CRISPR-Cas relies on target gene identification, guide RNA development, vector design and construction, CRISPR-Cas reagent delivery to maize tissues, and plant characterization, each contributing unique challenges to CRISPR-Cas efficacy. Recent advances continue to chip away at major barriers that prevent more widespread use of CRISPR-Cas technologies in maize, including germplasm-independent delivery of CRISPR-Cas reagents and production of high-resolution genomic data in relevant germplasm to facilitate CRISPR-Cas experimental design. This has led to the development of novel breeding tools to advance maize genetics and demonstrations of how CRISPR-Cas technologies might be used to enhance maize germplasm.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11032-021-01200-9.

Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as Carriers for Biomolecules in Cancer Therapy

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) offer many advantageous properties for applications in the field of nanobiotechnology. Loading of small molecules into MSNs is straightforward and widely applied, but with the upswing of both research and commercial interest in biological drugs in recent years, also biomacromolecules have been loaded into MSNs for delivery purposes. MSNs possess many critical properties making them a promising and versatile carrier for biomacromolecular delivery. In this chapter, we review the effects of the various structural parameters of MSNs on the effective loading of biomacromolecular therapeutics, with focus on maintaining stability and drug delivery performance. We also emphasize recent studies involving the use of MSNs in the delivery of biomacromolecular drugs, especially for cancer treatment.

Biological Evaluation of Black Chokeberry Extract Free and Embedded in Two Mesoporous Silica-Type Matrices

Black chokeberry fruits possess a wide range of biological activities, among which the most important that are frequently mentioned in the literature are their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and antimicrobial properties. The present paper reports, for the first time, the encapsulation of the ethanolic extract of Aronia melanocarpa L. fruits into two mesoporous silica-type matrices (i.e., pristine MCM-41 and MCM-41 silica decorated with zinc oxide nanoparticles). The aim of this work was to evaluate the antiradicalic capacity, the antimicrobial potential, and the effects on the cell viability on a cancer cell line (i.e., A375 human melanoma cell line) versus normal cells (i.e., HaCaT human keratinocytes) of black chokeberry extract loaded on silica-type matrices in comparison to that of the extract alone. The ethanolic polyphenolic extract obtained by conventional extraction was characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography with a photodiode array detector (HPLC–PDA) and spectrophotometric methods. The extract was found to contain high amounts of polyphenols and flavonoids, as well as good radical scavenging activity. The extract-loaded materials were investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, N₂ adsorption–desorption isotherms, thermal analysis, and radical scavenger activity on solid samples. The black chokeberry extract, both free and loaded onto mesoporous silica-type matrices, exhibited a significant antioxidant capacity. Antibacterial activity was recorded only for Gram-positive bacteria, with a more potent antibacterial effect being observed for the extract loaded onto the ZnO-modified MCM-41 silica-type support than for the free extract, probably due to the synergistic effect of the ZnO nanoparticles that decorate the pore walls of silica. The cellular viability test (i.e., MTT assay) showed dose- and time-dependent activity regarding the melanoma cell line. The healthy cells were less affected than the cancer cells, with all tested samples showing good cytocompatibility at doses of up to 100 µg/mL. Improved in vitro antiproliferative and antimigratory (i.e., scratch assay) potential was demonstrated through the loading of black chokeberry extract into mesoporous silica-type matrices, and the screened samples exhibited low selectivity against the tested non-tumor cell line. Based on presented results, one can conclude that mesoporous silica-type matrices are good hosts for black chokeberry extract, increasing its antioxidant, antibacterial (on the screened strains), and in vitro antitumor (on the screened cell line) properties.

Multimodal Decorations of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Improved Cancer Therapy

The presence of leaky vasculature and the lack of lymphatic drainage of small structures by the solid tumors formulate nanoparticles as promising delivery vehicles in cancer therapy. In particular, among various nanoparticles, the mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) exhibit numerous outstanding features, including mechanical thermal and chemical stability, huge surface area and ordered porous interior to store different anti-cancer therapeutics with high loading capacity and tunable release mechanisms. Furthermore, one can easily decorate the surface of MSN by attaching ligands for active targeting specifically to the cancer region exploiting overexpressed receptors. The controlled release of drugs to the disease site without any leakage to healthy tissues can be achieved by employing environment responsive gatekeepers for the end-capping of MSN. To achieve precise cancer chemotherapy, the most desired delivery system should possess high loading efficiency, site-specificity and capacity of controlled release. In this review we will focus on multimodal decorations of MSN, which is the most demanding ongoing approach related to MSN application in cancer therapy. Herein, we will report about the recently tried efforts for multimodal modifications of MSN, exploiting both the active targeting and stimuli responsive behavior simultaneously, along with individual targeted delivery and stimuli responsive cancer therapy using MSN.

Engineered Interactions with Mesoporous Silica Facilitate Intracellular Delivery of Proteins and Gene Editing

Intracellular delivery of functional proteins is a promising, but challenging, strategy for many therapeutic applications. Here, we report a new methodology that overcomes drawbacks of traditional mesoporous silica (MSi) particles for protein delivery. We hypothesize that engineering enhancement in interactions between proteins and delivery vehicles can facilitate efficient encapsulation and intracellular delivery. In this strategy, surface lysines in proteins were modified with a self-immolative linker containing a terminal boronic acid for stimulus-induced reversibility in functionalization. The boronic acid moiety serves to efficiently interact with amine-functionalized MSi through dative and electrostatic interactions. We show that proteins of different sizes and isoelectric points can be quantitatively encapsulated into MSi, even at low protein concentrations. We also show that the proteins can be efficiently delivered into cells with retention of activity. Utility of this approach is further demonstrated with gene editing in cells, through the delivery of a CRISPR/Cas9 complex.

Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as Carriers for Therapeutic Biomolecules

The enormous versatility of mesoporous silica nanoparticles permits the creation of a large number of nanotherapeutic systems for the treatment of cancer and many other pathologies. In addition to the controlled release of small drugs, these materials allow a broad number of molecules of a very different nature and sizes. In this review, we focus on biogenic species with therapeutic abilities (proteins, peptides, nucleic acids, and glycans), as well as how nanotechnology, in particular silica-based materials, can help in establishing new and more efficient routes for their administration. Indeed, since the applicability of those combinations of mesoporous silica with bio(macro)molecules goes beyond cancer treatment, we address a classification based on the type of therapeutic action. Likewise, as illustrative content, we highlight the most typical issues and problems found in the preparation of those hybrid nanotherapeutic materials.

Emerging and Innovative Theranostic Approaches for Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Status and Advances

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent and lethal solid cancers globally. To improve diagnosis sensitivities and treatment efficacies, the development of new theranostic nanoplatforms for efficient HCC management is urgently needed. In the past decade, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with tailored structure, large surface area, high agents loading volume, abundant chemistry functionality, acceptable biocompatibility have received more and more attention in HCC theranostic. This review outlines the recent advances in MSNs-based systems for HCC therapy and diagnosis. The multifunctional hybrid nanostructures that have both of therapy and diagnosis abilities are highlighted. And the precision delivery strategies of MSNs in HCC are also discussed. Final, we conclude with our personal perspectives on the future development and challenges of MSNs.

Modified ZIF-8 Nanoparticles Attenuate Osteoarthritis by Reprogramming the Metabolic Pathway of Synovial Macrophages

Accumulating evidence suggests that activation of proinflammatory M1-type macrophages in the synovium plays a vital role in the progression of osteoarthritis (OA). Redundant nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) are key factors that drive macrophages to polarize to the M1 type. Herein, modified zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) nanoparticles (NPs) have been synthesized. By regulating intracellular gases and reprogramming the metabolism phenotype, modified NPs transformed macrophage polarization from proinflammatory M1 to anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. Specifically, S-methylisothiourea hemisulfate salt was loaded into ZIF-8 NPs to inhibit inducible nitric oxide synthase, hence reducing NO production. Catalase was encapsulated to catalyze the production of oxygen (O₂) from H₂O₂. Results demonstrated that modified NPs were capable of catalyzing H₂O₂ to produce O₂ and eliminate NO, hence inhibiting hypoxia-inducible factor 1α, further rescuing mitochondrial function. Moreover, anti-CD16/32 antibody modification could prolong the retention time of NPs in knee joints of OA mice with anterior cruciate ligament transection. More significantly, modified NPs suppressed M1 macrophages and up-regulated M2 macrophage infiltration in the synovium, further inhibiting cartilage degeneration. This ZIF-8 NP-based gas regulation and metabolic reprogramming strategy may pave a new avenue for OA treatment.

Programmable multi-DNA release from multilayered polyelectrolytes using gigahertz nano-electromechanical resonator

BACKGROUND

Controllable and multiple DNA release is critical in modern gene-based therapies. Current approaches require complex assistant molecules for combined release. To overcome the restrictions on the materials and environment, a novel and versatile DNA release method using a nano-electromechanical (NEMS) hypersonic resonator of gigahertz (GHz) frequency is developed.

RESULTS

The micro-vortexes excited by ultra-high frequency acoustic wave can generate tunable shear stress at solid-liquid interface, thereby disrupting molecular interactions in immobilized multilayered polyelectrolyte thin films and releasing embedded DNA strands in a controlled fashion. Both finite element model analysis and experiment results verify the feasibility of this method. The release rate and released amount are confirmed to be well tuned. Owing to the different forces generated at different depth of the films, release of two types of DNA molecules with different velocities is achieved, which further explores its application in combined gene therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research confirmed that this novel platform based on a nano-electromechanical hypersonic resonator works well for controllable single and multi-DNA release. In addition, the unique features of this resonator such as miniaturization and batch manufacturing open its possibility to be developed into a high-throughput, implantable and site targeting DNA release and delivery system.

Smart Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Protein Delivery

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) have attracted a lot of attention during the past decade which is attributable to their versatile and high loading capacity, easy surface functionalization, excellent biocompatibility, and great physicochemical and thermal stability. In this review, we discuss the factors affecting the loading of protein into MSN and general strategies for targeted delivery and controlled release of proteins with MSN. Additionally, we also give an outlook for the remaining challenges in the clinical translation of protein-loaded MSNs.

Enhancement of Spirotetramat Transfer in Cucumber Plant Using Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as Carriers

Pesticides will be used for a long period of time, and their use may cause environmental contamination and adverse effects on human health. The aim of this study was to improve the utilization rate of pesticides and reduce the risk to the environment using mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as carriers. Compared to the conventional formulation, spirotetramat-loading MSNs improved deposition, uptake, and translocation performance in cucumber plants. MSNs may hold spirotetramat in their mesoporous structure and prevent its degradation in plants. The final residue of spirotetramat and its metabolites demonstrated that spirotetramat-loading MSNs had low risk to the edible parts of plants under foliar application. This study added our knowledge of MSNs controlling pesticide release and transfer in plant.

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles for therapeutic/diagnostic applications

Based on unique intrinsic properties of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) such as high surface area, large pore size, good biocompatibility and biodegradability, stable aqueous dispersion, they have received much attention in the recent decades for their applications as a promising platform in the biomedicine field. These porous structures possess a pore size ranging from 2 to 50 nm which make them excellent candidates for various biomedical applications. Herein, at first we described the common approaches of cargo loading and release processes from MSNs. Then, the intracellular uptake, safety and cytotoxicity aspects of MSNs are discussed as well. This review also highlights the most recent advances in the biomedical applications of MSNs, including 1) MSNs-based carriers, 2) MSNs as bioimaging agents, 3) MSNs-based biosensors, 4) MSNs as therapeutic agents (photodynamic therapy), 5) MSN based quantum dots, 6) MSNs as platforms for upconverting nanoparticles, and 6) MSNs in tissue engineering.

Mesoporous Silica-Based Nanoparticles for Light-Actuated Biomedical Applications via Near-Infrared Two-Photon Absorption

In this review, we highlight the design of nanomaterials for two-photon excitation, in order to treat tumors with a high accuracy. Indeed two-photon excitation allows remote control of the nanoparticles with a spatio-temporal resolution. The nanomaterials are based on mesoporous silica-organosilica nanoparticles including core-shell systems. The therapeutic treatments include drug delivery, photodynamic therapy, gene silencing, and their combinations. At first, the nanosystems designed for two-photon-triggered cytotoxic drug delivery are reviewed. Then the nanomaterials prepared for two-photon photodynamic therapy and reactive oxygen species delivery are discussed. Finally, the nanosystems combining drug delivery or gene silencing with two-photon photodynamic therapy are presented. Due to the rapid progresses concerning two-photon-excited nanomaterials and the interest of near-infrared light to treat deep tumors, we believe this technology could be of high interest for the personalized medicine of the future.

Modulating cellular autophagy for controlled antiretroviral drug release

AIM

Pharmacologic agents that affect autophagy were tested for their abilities to enhance macrophage nanoformulated antiretroviral drug (ARV) depots and its slow release.

METHODS

These agents included URMC-099, rapamycin, metformin, desmethylclomipramine, 2-hydroxy-β-cyclodextrin (HBC) and clonidine. Each was administered with nanoformulated atazanavir (ATV) nanoparticles to human monocyte-derived macrophages. ARV retention, antiretroviral activity and nanocrystal autophagosomal formation were evaluated.

RESULTS

URMC-099, HBC and clonidine retained ATV. HBC, URMC-099 and rapamycin improved intracellular ATV retention. URMC-099 proved superior among the group in affecting antiretroviral activities.

CONCLUSION

Autophagy inducing agents, notably URMC-099, facilitate nanoformulated ARV depots and lead to sustained release and improved antiretroviral responses. As such, they may be considered for development as part of long acting antiretroviral treatment regimens.

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles as cutting-edge theranostics: Advancement from merely a carrier to tailor-made smart delivery platform

Large surface area, uniform and tunable pore size, high pore volume and low mass density- such attractive features of Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) have compelled researchers to explore the biomedical potential of this nano-material. Recently gained interest in MSNPs have been due to their tremendous potential in cancer therapy and imaging. Last several years have witnessed a rapid development in engineering functionalized MSNPs with various types of functional groups integrated into the system for imaging and therapeutic applications. Although their potential for drug delivery application has been studied since the year 2000, still a major challenge is to improve drug loading capacity and in vivo targeting with minimal side-effects to major organs. In this review article, the recent development of MSNPs as a therapeutic and diagnostic platform has been detailed out with emphasis on drug and bio-macromolecule delivery/co-delivery, bio-imaging and detoxification.

Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles: A Comprehensive Review on Synthesis and Recent Advances

Recent advancements in drug delivery technologies utilizing a variety of carriers have resulted in a path-breaking revolution in the approach towards diagnosis and therapy alike in the current times. Need for materials with high thermal, chemical and mechanical properties have led to the development of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs). These ordered porous materials have garnered immense attention as drug carriers owing to their distinctive features over the others. They can be synthesized using a relatively simple process, thus making it cost effective. Moreover, by controlling the parameters during the synthesis; the morphology, pore size and volume and particle size can be transformed accordingly. Over the last few years, a rapid increase in research on MSNs as drug carriers for the treatment of various diseases has been observed indicating its potential benefits in drug delivery. Their widespread application for the loading of small molecules as well as macromolecules such as proteins, siRNA and so forth, has made it a versatile carrier. In the recent times, researchers have sorted to several modifications in the framework of MSNs to explore its potential in drug resistant chemotherapy, antimicrobial therapy. In this review, we have discussed the synthesis of these multitalented nanoparticles and the factors influencing the size and morphology of this wonder carrier. The second part of this review emphasizes on the applications and the advances made in the MSNs to broaden the spectrum of its use especially in the field of biomedicine. We have also touched upon the lacunae in the thorough understanding of its interaction with a biological system which poses a major hurdle in the passage of this carrier to the clinical level. In the final part of this review, we have discussed some of the major patents filed in the field of MSNs for therapeutic purpose.

Interaction of silica nanoparticles with tau proteins and PC12 cells: Colloidal stability, thermodynamic, docking, and cellular studies

Study on the side effects of the nanoparticles (NPs) can provide useful information regarding their biological and medical applications. Herein, the colloidal stability of the silicon dioxide NPs (SiO₂ NPs) in the absence and presence of tau was investigated by TEM and DLS techniques. Afterwards, the thermodynamic parameters of interaction between SiO₂ NPs and tau were determined by fluorescence spectroscopy and docking studies. Finally, the cytotoxic effects of SiO₂ NPs on the viability of PC12 cells were investigated by MTT, AO/EB staining and flow cytometry assays. TEM, DLS, and zeta potential investigations revealed that tau can reduce the colloidal stability of SiO₂ NPs. Fluorescence spectroscopy study indicated that SiO₂ NPs bound to the tau with high affinity through hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interactions. Docking study also determined that Ser, Thr and Tyr residues provide a polar microenvironment for SiO₂ NPs/tau interaction. Cellular studies demonstrated that SiO₂ NPs can induce cell mortality through both apoptosis and necrosis mechanisms. Therefore, it may be concluded that the biological systems such as nervous system proteins can affect the colloidal stability of NPs and vice versa NPs in the biological systems can bind to proteins and cell membranes non-specifically and may induce toxicity.

Protein delivery into cells using inorganic nanoparticle-protein supramolecular assemblies

The delivery of proteins into cells is a potential game changer for a wide array of therapeutic purposes, including cancer therapy, immunomodulation and treatment of inherited diseases. In this review, we present recently developed nanoassemblies for protein delivery that utilize strategies that range from direct assembly, encapsulation and composite formation. We will discuss factors that affect the efficacy of nanoassemblies for delivery from the perspective of both nanoparticles and proteins. Challenges in the field, particularly achieving effective cytosolar protein delivery through endosomal escape or evasion are discussed.

Sensitization of Cancer Cells via Non-Viral Delivery of Apoptosis Inducing Proteins Using a Cationic Bolaamphiphile

Cationic bolaamphiphile polymers had been previously studied as efficient delivery system for the delivery of proteins with relatively low toxicity. Here, the authors investigate the use of a protein delivery system based on a cationic bolaamphiphile to sensitize cancer cells toward apoptosis-inducing drugs as a novel approach for cancer therapy. The authors demonstrates the efficacy of the system by two strategies. The first strategy involves delivery of a survivin antibody to inhibit survivin activity. Sensitization of MCF-7 cells to doxorubicin is observed by survivin inhibition by antibodies. The IC₅₀ of doxorubicin is reduced ≈2.5-fold after delivery of survivin antibodies to breast cancer cells and induction of apoptosis is shown by Western blotting with apoptosis specific antibodies. In a second approach, functional wild type p53 is delivered into p53-null liver cancer (Hep3B) cells, sensitizing the cells toward the p53 pathway drug, Nutlin. Nutlin reduced the viability of Hep3B cells by ≈42% at 15 μM concentration, demonstrating the effectiveness of p53 delivery. The expression of p21, a downstream target of p53 further confirmed the functional status of the delivered protein. In conclusion. The successful delivery of apoptosis inducing proteins and sensitization of cancer cells via cationic bolaamphiphile polymer represents a promising system for cancer therapeutics.

Bioinspired Diselenide-Bridged Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Dual-Responsive Protein Delivery

Controlled delivery of protein therapeutics remains a challenge. Here, the inclusion of diselenide-bond-containing organosilica moieties into the framework of silica to fabricate biodegradable mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with oxidative and redox dual-responsiveness is reported. These diselenide-bridged MSNs can encapsulate cytotoxic RNase A into the 8-10 nm internal pores via electrostatic interaction and release the payload via a matrix-degradation controlled mechanism upon exposure to oxidative or redox conditions. After surface cloaking with cancer-cell-derived membrane fragments, these bioinspired RNase A-loaded MSNs exhibit homologous targeting and immune-invasion characteristics inherited from the source cancer cells. The efficient in vitro and in vivo anti-cancer performance, which includes increased blood circulation time and enhanced tumor accumulation along with low toxicity, suggests that these cell-membrane-coated, dual-responsive degradable MSNs represent a promising platform for the delivery of bio-macromolecules such as protein and nucleic acid therapeutics.

Monitoring the Stimulated Uncapping Process of Gold-Capped Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles

To establish a new method for tracking the interaction of nanoparticles with chemical cleaving agents, we exploited the optical effects caused by attaching 5-10 nm gold nanoparticles with molecular linkers to large mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN). At low levels of gold loading onto MSN, the optical spectra resemble colloidal suspensions of gold. As the gold is removed, by cleaving agents, the MSN revert to the optical spectra typical of bare silica. Time-lapse images of gold-capped MSN stationed in microchannels reveal that the rate of gold release is dependent on the concentration of the cleaving agent. The uncapping process was also monitored successfully for MSN endocytosed by A549 cancer cells, which produce the cleaving agent glutathione. These experiments demonstrate that the optical properties of MSN can be used to directly monitor cleaving kinetics, even in complex cellular settings.

Conserved Activity of Reassociated Homotetrameric Protein Subunits Released from Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) with enlarged pores were prepared and characterized, and reversibly dissociated subunits of concanavalin A were entrapped in the mesopores, as shown by multiple biochemical and material characterizations. When loaded in the MSN, we demonstrated protein stability from proteases and, upon release, the subunits reassociated into active proteins shown through mannose binding and o-phthalaldehyde fluorescence. We have demonstrated a versatile and facile method to load homomeric proteins into MSN with potential applications in enhancing the delivery of large therapeutic proteins.

Antiadhesion Organogel Materials: From Liquid to Solid

Various organogel materials with either a liquid or solid surface layer have recently been designed and prepared. These surface materials can substantially reduce the adhesion of foreign deposits such as water, blood, paint, ice, and so on; therefore, they exhibit great potential for the easy removal of foreign deposits. Here, a brief discussion about the mechanism of organogel materials in reducing adhesion is given; then, examples of liquid organogels for fighting against varieties of complex fluidic deposits are presented, and efforts in preventing the depletion of liquid are discussed. Finally, applications of antiadhesion organogels with multifunctionality, and the strategy of replacing liquids with solids are presented.