Engineering mesoporous silica nanoparticles for drug delivery: where are we after two decades?

Molecular dynamics in pharmaceutical nanotechnology: simulating interactions and advancing applications

Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations are now widely utilized in pharmaceutical nanotechnology to gain deeper understanding of nanoscale processes imperative to drug design. This review has also detailed how MD simulation can be employed in the study of drug-nanocarrier interactions, controlling release of chemical compounds from drug delivery systems and increasing solubility and bioavailability of nanocarriers. Furthermore, MD contributes to examining the drug delivery systems, measuring the toxic effects, and determining biocompatibility of nanomedical systems. With the incorporation of artificial intelligence and the use of hybrid simulation systems, MD has gone a step ahead to model other niches of biology that make a tremendous opening to develop highly selective nanomedications. Nevertheless, with well-known issues such as computational constraints and the discrepancy between in silico and experiment results, MD remains a work in progress, with considerable promise for replacing or supplementing existing approaches to the development of precision medicine and nanomedicine, the continued progression of healthcare hopeful.

Engineered 3D DNA Crystals: A Molecular Design Perspective

Recent advances in biomolecular self-assembly have transformed material science, enabling the creation of novel materials with unparalleled precision and functionality. Among these innovations, 3D DNA crystals have emerged as a distinctive class of macroscopic materials, engineered through the bottom-up approach by DNA self-assembly. These structures uniquely combine precise molecular ordering with high programmability, establishing their importance in advanced material design. This review delves into the molecular design of engineered 3D DNA crystals, classifying current crystal structures based on "crystal bond orientations" and examining key aspects of in-silico molecular design, self-assembly, and crystal modifications. The functionalization of 3D DNA crystals for applications in crystallization scaffolding, biocatalysis, biosensing, electrical and optical devices, as well as in the emerging fields of DNA computing and data storage are explored. Finally, the ongoing challenges are addressed and future directions to advance the field of engineered 3D DNA crystals are proposed.

Synergistic pH-responsive MUC-1 aptamer-conjugated Ag/MSN Janus nanoparticles for targeted chemotherapy, photothermal therapy, and gene therapy in breast cancer

Drug resistance in cancer treatment, primarily attributed to the overexpression of the multidrug resistance (MDR) gene, significantly hampers the effectiveness of chemotherapy. This mechanism, driven by the increased production of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux pumps, highlights the urgent need for innovative strategies to combat drug resistance in cancer patients. This study explores the application of antisense technology to suppress MDR gene expression, while addressing the challenges of instability and limited cellular uptake associated with antisense oligonucleotides. We synthesized Janus silver-mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Ag/MSN JNPs) using a sol-gel method, characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS), revealing uniformly sized, dumbbell-shaped nanoparticles with an average size of 285 ± 5.12 nm. Doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded into the porous structure of the mesoporous silica, and JNPs were functionalized with chitosan (CS) to incorporate P-gp antisense and a MUC-1 aptamer, serving as a pH-responsive gatekeeper. Our findings indicate that the Ap-As-DOX-JNPs achieved a remarkable 89 ± 0.59 % cell death in drug-resistant MCF-7/ADR cells after 48 h, alongside an 80 % reduction in P-gp expression. The combination of DOX, antisense technology, and photothermal therapy utilizing these JNPs demonstrates a promising strategy to effectively overcome drug resistance. Notably, normal MCF-7 cells exhibited reduced viability from 39.11 ± 1.12 % to 30.05 ± 1.07 % when treated with DOX-JNPs under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. These results underscore the potential of utilizing MUC-1 aptamer-conjugated Janus nanoparticles in conjunction with chitosan as a gatekeeper to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy, photothermal therapy, and gene therapy in overcoming multidrug resistance in cancer treatment.

Specific buffer effects on the formation of BSA protein corona around amino-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles

The effect of buffer species on biomolecules and biomolecule-nanoparticle interactions is a phenomenon that has been either neglected, or not understood. Here, we study the formation of a BSA protein corona (PC) around amino-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN-NH2) in the presence of different buffers (Tris, BES, cacodylate, phosphate, and citrate) at the same pH (7.15) and different concentrations (10, 50, and 100 mM). We find that BSA adsorption is buffer specific, with the adsorbed amount of BSA being 4.4 times higher in the presence of 100 mM Tris (184 ± 3 mg/g) than for 100 mM citrate (42 ± 2 mg/g). That is a considerable difference that cannot be explained by conventional theories. The results become clearer if the interaction energies between BSA and MSN-NH2, considering the electric double layer (EEDL) and the van der Waals (EvdW) terms, are evaluated. The buffer specific PC derives from buffer specific zeta potentials that, for MSN-NH2, are positive with Tris and negative with citrate buffers. A reversed sign of zeta potentials can be obtained by considering polarizability-dependent dispersion forces acting together with electrostatics to give the buffer specific outcome. These results are relevant not only to our understanding of the formation of the PC but may also apply to other bio- and nanosystems in biological media.

Nanoparticles in Subunit Vaccines: Immunological Foundations, Categories, and Applications

Subunit vaccines, significant in next-generation vaccine development, offer precise targeting of immune responses by focusing on specific antigens. However, this precision often comes at the cost of eliciting strong and durable immunity, posing a great challenge to vaccine design. To address this limitation, recent advancements in nanoparticles (NPs) are utilized to enhance antigen delivery efficiency and boost vaccine efficacy. This review examines how the physicochemical properties of NPs influence various stages of the immune response during vaccine delivery and analyzes how different NP types contribute to immune activation and enhance vaccine performance. It then explores the unique characteristics and immune activation mechanisms of these NPs, along with their recent advancements, and highlights their application in subunit vaccines targeting infectious diseases and cancer. Finally, it discusses the challenges in NP-based vaccine development and proposes future directions for innovation in this promising field.

An "Outer Piezoelectric and Inner Epigenetic" Logic-Gated PANoptosis for Osteosarcoma Sono-Immunotherapy and Bone Regeneration

The precise manipulation of PANoptosis, a newly defined cell death pathway encompassing pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis, is highly desired to achieve safer cancer immunotherapy with tumor-specific inflammatory responses and minimal side effects. Nonetheless, this objective remains a formidable challenge. Herein, an "AND" logic-gated strategy for accurately localized PANoptosis activation, utilizing composite 3D-printed bioactive glasses scaffolds integrated with epigenetic regulator-loaded porous piezoelectric SrTiO3 nanoparticles is proposed. The "logic-gated" strategy is co-programmed by an "outer" input signal of exogenous ultrasound irradiation to produce reactive oxygen species and an "inner" input signal of acid tumor microenvironment to ensure the epigenetic demethylation regulation, guaranteeing the tumor-specific PANoptosis. Specifically, immunogenic PANoptosis triggers dendritic cell maturation and cytotoxic T cell activation, amplifying antitumor immune responses and significantly suppressing osteosarcoma growth, with a suppression rate of ≈73.47 ± 5.2%. In addition, the well-known bioactivities of Sr-doped scaffolds expedite osteogenic differentiation and reinforce bone regeneration. Therefore, this work provides a paradigm of logic-gated sono-piezoelectric biomaterial platform with concurrently exogenous/endogenous activated PANoptosis for controlled sono-immunotherapy of osteosarcoma, and related bone defects repair.

siRNA-based therapy for overcoming drug resistance in human solid tumours; molecular and immunological approaches

RNA interference (RNAi) is a primordial biological process that protects against external intrusion. SiRNA has the potential to selectively silence disease-related genes in a sequence-specific way, thus offering a promising therapeutic approach. The efficacy of siRNA-based therapies in cancer treatment has gained significant recognition due to multiple studies demonstrating its ability to effectively suppress cancer cells' growth and multiplication. Moreover, siRNA-based medicines have shown considerable promise in enhancing the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy and other treatment methods by suppressing genes that play a role in the development of drug resistance. Exploring and identifying functional genes linked to cancer cell characteristics and drug resistance is crucial for developing effective siRNAs for cancer treatment and advancing targeted and personalized therapeutics. Targeting and silencing genes in charge of resistance mechanisms, such as those involved in drug efflux, cell survival, or DNA repair, is possible with siRNA therapy in the context of drug resistance, especially cancer. Through inhibiting these genes, siRNA therapy can prevent resistance and restore the efficacy of traditional medications. This review addresses the potential of siRNAs in addressing drug resistance in human tumours, opening up new possibilities in cancer therapy. This review article offers a non-systematic summary of how different siRNA types contribute to cancer cells' treatment resistance. Using pertinent keywords, sources were chosen from reliable databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The review covered essential papers in this area and those that mainly addressed the function of siRNA in drug resistance. The articles examined in connection with the title of this review were primarily published from 2020 onward and are based on in vitro studies. Furthermore, this article examines the potential barriers and prospective perspectives of siRNA therapies.

Magnetic Nanocarriers for pH/GSH/NIR Triple-Responsive Drug Release and Synergistic Therapy in Tumor Cells

In this study, the mesoporous Fe3O4 nanodrug carriers containing disulfide bonds (CHO-SMNPs) were successfully synthesized and characterized. Doxorubicin (DOX) was loaded onto the CHO-SMNPs as a model drug and gatekeeper through the formation of imine bonds with the aldehyde groups on the surface of the mesoporous materials. This drug carrier demonstrates effective drug release triggered by pH, glutathione (GSH), and near-infrared (NIR) light, along with satisfactory photothermal conversion efficiency under NIR irradiation at 808 nm. Furthermore, CHO-SMNPs exhibit excellent blood compatibility and biodegradability. They also show good biocompatibility and efficient cellular uptake in HeLa and MCF-7 cancer cells. Most importantly, the CHO-SMNPs/DOX has shown significant effectiveness in killing both HeLa and MCF-7 cancer cells. Consequently, CHO-SMNPs/DOX presents substantial potential as a magnetic-targeted, pH/GSH/NIR triple-triggered drug delivery system for synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy in tumor treatment.

A pH-Dependent Phase Separation Drives Polyamine-Mediated Silicification from Undersaturated Solutions

Silica polymerization from its soluble monomers is fundamental to many chemical processes. Although industrial methods require harsh conditions and concentrated precursors, biological silica precipitation occurs under ambient conditions from dilute solutions. The hallmark of biosilica is the presence of amine-rich organic macromolecules, but their functional role remains elusive. Here, we show a pH-dependent stimulatory effect of such polyamines on silica polymerization. Notably, this process is decoupled from the saturation degree, allowing the synthesis of polymer-silica hybrid products with controlled network morphologies from undersaturated solutions. The data suggest a two-step phase separation process. First, an associative liquid-liquid phase separation forms a micrometer-size dense phase. Second, silica undergoes a liquid-to-solid transition in the supersaturated condensates to form a bicontinuous silica structure. This study can inspire "soft chemistry" routes to design organic-inorganic nanomaterials with regulatory principles optimized by evolution.

Revolutionizing healthcare: inorganic medicinal nanoarchitectonics for advanced theranostics

Over the last two decades, advancements in nanomaterials and nanoscience have paved the path for the emergence of nano-medical convergence science, significantly impacting healthcare. In our review, we highlight how these advancements are applied in various biomedical technologies such as drug delivery systems, bio-imaging for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Recently, novel inorganic nanohybrid drugs have been developed, combining multifunctional inorganic nanomaterials with therapeutic agents (known as inorganic medicinal nanoarchitectonics). These innovative drugs are actively utilized in cutting-edge medical treatments, including targeted anti-cancer therapy, photo and radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. This review provides a detailed overview of the current development status of inorganic medicinal nanoarchitectonics and explores potential future directions in their advancements.

Disordered mesoporous silica particles: an emerging platform to deliver proteins to the lungs

Pulmonary delivery and formulation of biologics are among the more complex and growing scientific topics in drug delivery. We herein developed a dry powder formulation using disordered mesoporous silica particles (MSP) as the sole excipient and lysozyme, the most abundant antimicrobial proteins in the airways, as model protein. The MSP had the optimal size for lung deposition (2.43 ± 0.13 µm). A maximum lysozyme loading capacity (0.35 mg/mg) was achieved in 150 mM PBS, which was seven times greater than that in water. After washing and freeze-drying, we obtained a dry powder consisting of spherical, non-aggregated particles, free from residual buffer, or unabsorbed lysozyme. The presence of lysozyme was confirmed by TGA and FT-IR, while N2 adsorption/desorption and SAXS analysis indicate that the protein is confined within the internal mesoporous structure. The dry powder exhibited excellent aerodynamic performance (fine particle fraction <5 µm of 70.32%). Lysozyme was released in simulated lung fluid in a sustained kinetics and maintaining high enzymatic activity (71-91%), whereas LYS-MSP were shown to degrade into aggregated nanoparticulate microstructures, reaching almost complete dissolution (93%) within 24 h. MSPs were nontoxic to in vitro lung epithelium. The study demonstrates disordered MSP as viable carriers to successfully deliver protein to the lungs, with high deposition and retained activity.

Regenerative medicine: Hydrogels and mesoporous silica nanoparticles

Hydrogels, that are crosslinked polymer networks, can absorb huge quantities of water and/or biological fluids. Their physical properties, such as elasticity and soft tissue, together with their biocompatibility and biodegradability, closely resemble living tissues. The versatility of hydrogels has fuelled their application in various fields, such as agriculture, biomaterials, the food industry, drug delivery, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. Their combination with nanoparticles, specifically with Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles (MSNs), have elevated these composites to the next level, since MSNs could improve the hydrogel mechanical properties, their ability to encapsulate and controlled release great amounts of different therapeutic agents, and their responsiveness to a variety of external and internal stimuli. In this review, the main features of both MSNs and hydrogels are introduced, followed by the discussion of different hydrogels-MSNs structures and an overview of their use in different applications, such as drug delivery technologies and tissue engineering.

Porous silicon and silica carriers for delivery of peptide therapeutics

Peptides have gained tremendous popularity as biological therapeutic agents in recent years due to their favourable specificity, diversity of targets, well-established screening methods, ease of production, and lower cost. However, their poor physiological and storage stability, pharmacokinetics, and fast clearance have limited their clinical translation. Novel nanocarrier-based strategies have shown promise in overcoming these issues. In this direction, porous silicon (pSi) and mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have been widely explored as potential carriers for the delivery of peptide therapeutics. These materials possess several advantages, including large surface areas, tunable pore sizes, and adjustable pore architectures, which make them attractive carriers for peptide delivery systems. In this review, we cover pSi and MSNs as drug carriers focusing on their use in peptide delivery. The review provides a brief overview of their fabrication, surface modification, and interesting properties that make them ideal peptide drug carriers. The review provides a systematic account of various studies that have utilised these unique porous carriers for peptide delivery describing significant in vitro and in vivo results. We have also provided a critical comparison of the two carriers in terms of their physicochemical properties and short-term and long-term biocompatibility. Lastly, we have concluded the review with our opinion of this field and identified key areas for future research for clinical translation of pSi and MSN-based peptide therapeutic formulations.

3D printed gelatin/PTMC core/shell scaffolds with NIR laser-tuned drug/biomolecule release for cancer therapy and uterine regeneration

Surgical resection is an efficient treatment for cancerous tissues and uterine fibroids in the women uterus. However, the insufficiency of clinical interventions could result in tumor recurrence, and the defective tissues remained would cause intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) and further affect reproduction capacity. In this study, 3D printed hydrogel/poly(l-lactide-co-trimethylene carbonate) (PLLA-co-TMC, "PTMC" in short) core/shell scaffolds with NIR-tuned doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) and estradiol (E2) dual release were designed and fabricated for cancer therapy and uterine regeneration. Gelatin (Gel) and DOX were homogeneously mixed and then 3D printed to form Gel-DOX scaffolds. Gel-DOX scaffolds were then immersed in PTMC-PDA@E2 solution to fabricate Gel-DOX/PTMC-PDA@E2 core/shell scaffolds. Consequently, Gel-DOX/PTMC-PDA@E2 scaffolds could release DOX and E2 in a chronological manner, firstly delivering DOX assisted by phototherapy (PTT) to effectively kill Hela cells and then sustainably releasing E2 to promote uterine tissue regeneration. In vitro experiments showed that core/shell scaffolds exhibited excellent anticancer efficiency through the synergy of DOX release and hyperthermia ablation. Moreover, E2 could be sustainably released for over 28 days in vitro to promote the proliferation of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). The novel Gel-DOX/PTMC-PDA@E2 core/shell scaffolds have therefore exhibited potential promise for the treatment of cancer therapy and uterine regeneration.

Doxorubicin- and Selenium-Incorporated Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as a Combination Therapy for Osteosarcoma

Doxorubicin (Dox) is a promising anticancer chemotherapeutic, which has been widely investigated in osteosarcoma (OS) treatment. However, there are several disadvantages regarding its clinical use. Specifically, Dox has low specificity toward cancer cells, which can lead to serious side effects. In addition, cancer cells can develop resistance toward Dox, reducing its therapeutic efficiency. Combination therapy (CT) facilitated by nanoparticle delivery systems is a promising strategy to overcome these drawbacks. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of Dox and selenium (Se) CT using mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) coated with hyaluronic acid (HA) as drug carriers. We hypothesized that combining Se as a second agent can increase Dox anti-OS effectiveness and that MSN can be used to facilitate dual drug delivery. In our system, HA was used as a gatekeeper to control the intracellular release of Se/Dox by means of its pH-responsive degradation. CT therapy using MSNs coated with HA led to a higher OS inhibitory efficiency in vitro compared to MSNs carrying either Se or Dox alone. This study demonstrates that using MSNs for the dual delivery of Se and Dox is a promising method for OS therapy.

Advancing cryptococcal treatment: The role of nanoparticles in mitigating antifungal resistance

Cryptococcus, a ubiquitous and formidable fungal pathogen, contributes to a substantial global disease burden, with nearly 250,000 cases and 181,000 fatalities attributed to cryptococcal meningitis annually worldwide. The invasive nature of Cryptococcus presents significant challenges in treatment and management, as it mostly affects vulnerable populations, including HIV patients, organ transplant recipients, pregnant women, and elderly individuals. Moreover, these difficulties are exacerbated by the development of antifungal resistance, which emphasizes the need for efficient control measures. In this context, research efforts focusing on infection control and novel therapeutic strategies become paramount. Nanoparticle-based therapies emerge as a solution, offering advanced antifungal properties and improved efficacy. Developing effective treatment options requires understanding the complex landscape of cryptococcal infections and the innovative potential of nanoparticle-based therapies. This review highlights the urgent need for novel strategies to combat the growing threat posed by antifungal resistance while offering insights into the intricate realm of cryptococcal infections, particularly focusing on the promising role of nanoparticle-based therapies.

Biosynthesis of pH-Responsive Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles from Cucumber Peels for Targeting 3D Lung Tumor Spheroids

Lung adenocarcinoma is considered to be one of the primary causes of cancer-related deaths globally. Conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy taken together, have not significantly lowered mortality rates. Repositioning of authorized anticancer medications supported by nanotechnology has therefore emerged as an effective strategy to close such gaps. In this context, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) were biosynthesized from cucumber peels and were loaded with doxorubicin, a common anticancer drug to form doxorubicin-bound mesoporous silica nanoparticles (DMSNs). The study addresses a sustainable method for turning waste materials into MSNs, which can be used to create multifunctional nanosystems. The therapeutic module (DMSNs) was designed specifically to target 2D monolayer cells and 3D tumor spheroids of lung adenocarcinoma cancer. The DMSNs demonstrated notable antiproliferative activity and effective intracellular localization in addition to being biocompatible and innately fluorescent. Subsequent investigations revealed significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcal infection, which is primarily prevalent in lung cancer patients. Thus, the developed MSNs held promising potential for anticancer drug delivery systems and have antibacterial potential to treat bacterial infections in patients with lung cancer. Furthermore, the cucumber peel-mediated synthesis of MSNs could also aid in the management of food waste and promote the adoption of the waste-to-health paradigm for sustainable solutions.

Replenishing Cation-π Interactions for the Fabrication of Mesoporous Levodopa Nanoformulations for Parkinson Remission

Directly assembling drugs into mesoporous nanoformulations will be greatly favored due to the combination of enhanced drug delivery efficiency and mesostructure-enabled nanobio interactions. However, such an approach is hindered due to the lack of understanding of polymer nanoparticles' formation mechanism, especially the relationship between polymerization, self-assembly, and the nucleation process. Here, by investigating the levodopa and dopamine polymerization process, we identify π-cation interaction as pivotal in the self-assembly and nucleation control of dopa molecules. Thus, through manipulation of the π-cation interaction, we present the direct assembly of a commercial drug, levodopa, into mesoporous nanoformulations. The synthesized nanospheres, approximately 200 nm in diameter, exhibit uniform mesopores of around 8 nm. These nanoformulations, abundant in mesopores, enhance chiral phenylalanine interaction with α-synuclein (Syn), curbing aggregation, safeguarding neurons, and alleviating Parkinson's pathology. When combating α-synuclein, the nanoformulation achieved ∼100% inhibition of protein aggregation and sustained neuron viability up to 300%. We believe that this study may advance mesoscale self-assembly knowledge, guiding future nanopharmaceutical developments.

Antibacterial activity of a silver-incorporated vancomycin-modified mesoporous silica against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Since conventional antibiotics are almost ineffective on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains, designing their antibacterial alternatives is necessary. Besides, the use of vancomycin is applied for specific detection of the bacteria. Silver-incorporated vancomycin-modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs@Van@Ag NPs) were designed for detection and treatment of MRSA bacteria. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) were synthesized through the template method, modified with vancomycin, and finally incorporated with silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs). The MSNs@Van@Ag NPs with a homogenously spherical shape, average size of 50-100 nm, surface area of 955.8 m2/g, and thermal stability up to 200°C were successfully characterized. The amount of Ag incorporated into the MSNs@Van@Ag was calculated at 3.9 ppm and the release amount of Ag was received at 2.92 ppm (75%) after 100 h. The in vitro antibacterial susceptibility test showed the MIC of 100 μg mL-1 for MSNs@Van and 50 μg mL-1 for MSNs@Van@Ag, showing in vitro enhanced effect of Ag and vancomycin in the bactericidal process. An in vivo acute pneumonia model was performed and biochemical assays and pathological studies confirmed the nanomedicine's short-term safety for in vivo application. Cytokine assay using ELISA showed that MSN@Van@Ag causes a reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and bacterial proliferation leading to alleviation of inflammatory response.

Surface modification of nanoparticles for enhanced applicability of nanofluids in harsh reservoir conditions: A comprehensive review for improved oil recovery

Nanoparticles improve traditional Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) methods but face instability issues. Surface modification resolves these, making it vital to understand its impact on EOR effectiveness. This paper examines how surface-modified nanoparticles can increase oil recovery rates. We discuss post-synthesis modifications like chemical functionalization, surfactant and polymer coatings, surface etching, and oxidation, and during-synthesis modifications like core-shell formation, in-situ ligand exchange, and surface passivation. Oil displacement studies show surface-engineered nanoparticles outperform conventional EOR methods. Coatings or functionalizations alter nanoparticle size by 1-5 nm, ensuring colloidal stability for 7 to 30 days at 25 to 65 °C and 30,000 to 150,000 ppm NaCl. This stability ensures uniform distribution and enhanced penetration through low-permeability (1-10 md) rocks, improving oil recovery by 5 to 50 %. Enhanced recovery is achieved through 1-25 μm oil-in-water emulsions, increased viscosity by ≥30 %, wettability changes from 170° to <10°, and interfacial tension reductions of up to 95 %. Surface oxidation is suitable for carbon-based nanoparticles in high-permeability (≥500 md) reservoirs, leading to 80 % oil recovery in micromodel studies. Surface etching is efficient for all nanoparticle types, and combining it with chemical functionalization enhances resistance to harsh conditions (≥40,000 ppm salinity and ≥ 50 °C). Modifying nanoparticle surfaces with a silane coupling agent before using polymers and surfactants improves EOR parameters and reduces polymer thermal degradation (e.g., only 10 % viscosity decrease after 90 days). Economically, 500 ppm of nanoparticles requires 56.25 kg in a 112,500 m3 reservoir, averaging $200/kg, and 2000 ppm of surface modifiers require 4 kg at $3.39/kg. This results in 188,694.30 barrels, or $16,039,015.50 at $85 per barrel for a 20 % increase in oil recovery. The economic benefits justify the initial costs, highlighting the importance of cost-effective nanoparticles for EOR applications.

Enhanced photodynamic therapy of curcumin using biodegradable PLGA coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles

Since the available treatments are not highly effective to combat cancer, therefore, the alternative strategies are unavoidable. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is one of the emerging approaches which is target specific and minimally invasive. This study explores the successful development of Poly (D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) and their augmented effects achieved by integrating curcumin (Cur) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) in the polymeric layer and silica's pores, respectively. The synthesized nanocarriers (Cur-PLGA-cMSNs) have shown preferential targeting to the cellular organelles facilitated by CTAB's and Cur's affinity to mitochondria. CTAB and Cur-based PDT induced oxidative stress and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in dysfunctional mitochondria and triggered apoptotic pathways. PLGA coating has produced multifunctional effects, including; gatekeeping effects at pore openings, providing an extra loading site, enhancing the hemocompatibility of MSNs, and masking the free cur-related prolonged coagulation time. Cur-PLGA-cMSNs, as a multifaceted and combative approach with synergistic effects demonstrate promising potential to enhance outcomes in cancer treatment.

Hybrid Silica Cage-Type Nanostructures Made from Triply Hydrophilic Block Copolymers Single Micelles

Controlling the structure and functionality of porous silica nanoparticles has been a continuous source of innovation with important potential for advanced biomedical applications. Their synthesis, however, usually involves passive surfactants or amphiphilic copolymers that do not add value to the material after synthesis. In contrast, polyion complex (PIC) micelles based on hydrophilic block copolymers allow for the direct synthesis of intrinsically functional hybrid materials. While most previous studies have focused on bulk materials made from double-hydrophilic block copolymers (DHBC), in this work we have synthesized a triple-hydrophilic block copolymer (THBC) and demonstrated both its PIC micellization and its potential for hybrid mesoporous silica nanomaterials. Introducing this THBC has allowed to direct the transition from bulk three-dimensional (3D) materials to zero-dimensional (0D) nanomaterials with cage-type structures. The stabilization and isolation of these nanostructures formed around discrete individual micelles has been made possible by the careful design of the three different blocks that each play a key role. These nanostructures could also be synthesized from hybrid PIC micelles based on THBC-multivalent metal ions complexes, offering a direct route to metal/silica composite nanoparticles. This class of THBC polymers therefore creates significant opportunities for the synthesis of nanostructures with complex and functional architectures.

In situ modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles: synthesis, properties and theranostic applications

Over the last 20 years, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have drawn considerable attention in the biomedical field due to their large surface area, porous network, biocompatibility, and abundant modification possibilities. In situ MSN modification refers to the incorporation of materials such as alkoxysilanes, ions and nanoparticles (NPs) in the silica matrix during synthesis. Matrix modification is a popular approach for endowing MSNs with additional functionalities such as imaging properties, bioactivity, and degradability, while leaving the mesopores free for drug loading. As such, in situ modified MSNs are considered promising theranostic agents. This review provides an extensive overview of different materials and modification strategies that have been used and their effect on MSN properties. We also highlight how in situ modified MSNs have been applied in theranostic applications, oncology and regenerative medicine. We conclude with perspectives on the future outlooks and current challenges for the widespread clinical use of in situ modified MSNs.

Pyrene monomer-excimer dynamics to reveal molecular organization in mesoporous hybrid silica films

Self-assembly and characteristics of hybrid mesoporous silica film templates remain a subject of inquiry. The short time scale of the inorganic condensation and formation of micelles makes our understanding of this process insufficient. To provide an insight into the evaporation-induced self-assembly of such films, we synthesized an efficient molecular probe of the triethoxysilane precursor bearing a pyrene derivative. The probe was introduced into the porous film at the synthesis stage through the sol-gel co-condensation method. At different synthesis stages, the emission of pyrene moieties was measured by fluorescence spectroscopy, revealing the placement of probes within the film. We also report dynamic excimer formation upon template removal. Moreover, we evaluate the influence of several parameters on the pyrene excimer formation phenomenon. The pore geometry, probe concentration, and the presence of another organosilane precursor are investigated in this work.

Controlled Drug Release Systems for Cerebrovascular Diseases

This review offers a comprehensive exploration of optimized drug delivery systems tailored for controlled release and their crucial role in addressing cerebrovascular diseases. Through an in‐depth analysis, various controlled release methods, including nanoparticles, liposomes, hydrogels, and other emerging technologies are examined. Highlighting the importance of precise drug targeting, it is delved into the underlying mechanisms of these delivery systems and their potential to improve therapeutic outcomes while minimizing adverse effects. Additionally, the specific applications of these optimized drug delivery systems in treating cerebrovascular disorders such as ischemic stroke, cerebral aneurysms, and intracranial hemorrhage are discussed. By shedding light on the advancements in drug delivery techniques and their implications in cerebrovascular medicine, this review offers valuable insights into the future of therapeutic interventions in neurology.

Functional inorganic nanoparticles in cancer: Biomarker detection, imaging, and therapy

Cancer poses a major global public health challenge. Developing more effective early diagnosis methods and efficient treatment techniques is crucial to enhance early detection sensitivity and treatment outcomes. Nanomaterials offer sensitive, accurate, rapid, and straightforward approaches for cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment. Inorganic nanoparticles are widely used in medicine because of their high stability, large specific surface area, unique surface properties, and unique quantum size effects. Functional inorganic nanoparticles involve modifying inorganic nanoparticles to enhance their physical properties, enrichment capabilities, and drug-loading efficiency and to minimize toxicity. This Review provides an overview of various types of inorganic nanoparticles and their functionalization characteristics. We then discuss the progress of functional inorganic nanoparticles in cancer biomarker detection and imaging. Furthermore, we discuss the application of functional inorganic nanoparticles in radiotherapy, chemotherapy, gene therapy, immunotherapy, photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, sonodynamic therapy, and combination therapy, highlighting their characteristics and advantages. Finally, the toxicity and potential challenges of functional inorganic nanoparticles are analyzed. The purpose of this Review is to explore the application of functional inorganic nanoparticles in diagnosing and treating cancers, while also presenting a new avenue for cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Amorphous stabilization of BCS II drugs using mesoporous silica

This study aimed to investigate the amorphous stabilization of BCS Class II drugs using mesoporous silica as a carrier to produce amorphous solid dispersions. Ibuprofen, fenofibrate, and budesonide were selected as model drugs to evaluate the impact of molecular weight and partition coefficient on the solid state of drug-loaded mesoporous silica (MS) particles. The model drugs were loaded into three grades of MS, SYLYSIA SY730, SYLYSIA SY430, and SYLYSIA SY350, with pore diameters of 2.5 nm, 17 nm, and 21 nm, respectively, at 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1, carrier to drug ratios, and three different loading concentrations using solvent immersion and spray drying techniques. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) thermograms of SY430 and SY350 samples exhibited melting point depressions indicating constricted crystallization inside the pores, whereas SY730 samples with melting points matching the pure API may be a result of surface crystallization. Powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD) diffractograms showed all crystalline samples matched the diffraction patterns of the pure API indicating no polymorphic transitions and all 3:1 ratio samples exhibited amorphous halo profiles. Response surface regression analysis and Classification and Regression Tree (CART) analysis suggest carrier to drug ratios, followed by molecular weight, have the most significant impact on the crystallinity of a drug loaded into MS particles.

Nanoplatform Based Intranasal Vaccines: Current Progress and Clinical Challenges

Multiple vaccine platforms have been employed to develop the nasal SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in preclinical studies, and the dominating pipelines are viral vectored as protein-based vaccines. Among them, several viral vectored-based vaccines have entered clinical development. Nevertheless, some unsatisfactory results were reported in these clinical studies. In the face of such urgent situations, it is imperative to rapidly develop the next-generation intranasal COVID-19 vaccine utilizing other technologies. Nanobased intranasal vaccines have emerged as an approach against respiratory infectious diseases. Harnessing the power of nanotechnology, these vaccines offer a noninvasive yet potent defense against pathogens, including the threat of COVID-19. The improvements made in vaccine mucosal delivery technologies based on nanoparticles, such as lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, inorganic nanoparticles etc., not only provide stability and controlled release but also enhance mucosal adhesion, effectively overcoming the limitations of conventional vaccines. Hence, in this review, we overview the evaluation of intranasal vaccine and highlight the current barriers. Next, the modern delivery systems based on nanoplatforms are summarized. The challenges in clinical application of nanoplatform based intranasal vaccine are finally discussed.

Biomimetic Metal-Organic Framework Gated Nanoplatform for Sonodynamic Therapy against Extensively Drug Resistant Bacterial Lung Infection

Novel antimicrobial strategies are urgently needed to treat extensively drug-resistant (XDR) bacterial infections due to the high mortality rate and lack of effective therapeutic agents. Herein, nanoengineered human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUC-MSCs), named PMZMU, are designed as a sonosensitizer for synergistic sonodynamic-nano-antimicrobial therapy against gram-negative XDR bacteria. PMZMU is composed of a bacterial targeting peptide (UBI29-41) modified hUC-MSCs membrane (MSCm), a sonosensitizer meso-tetra(4-car-boxyphenyl) porphine doped mesoporous organo-silica nanoparticle and an acidity-responsive metal-organic framework ZIF-8. This innovative formulation enables efficient loading of polymyxin B, reduces off-target drug release, increases circulation and targeting efficacy, and generates reactive oxygen species upon ultrasound irradiation. PMZMU exhibits remarkable in vitro inhibitory activity against four XDR bacteria: Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), and Escherichia coli. Taking advantage of the bacterial targeting ability of UBI29-41 and the inflammatory chemotaxis of hUC-MSC, PMZMU can be precisely delivered to lung infection sites thereby augmenting polymyxin B concentration. PMZMU-mediated sonodynamic therapy significantly reduces bacterial burden, relieves inflammatory damage by promoting the polarization of macrophages toward M2 phenotype, and improves survival rates without introducing adverse events. Overall, this study offers promising strategies for treating deep-tissue XDR bacterial infections, and guides the design and optimization of biomimetic nanomedicine.

C176-loaded and phosphatidylserine-modified nanoparticles treat retinal neovascularization by promoting M2 macrophage polarization

Retinal neovascularization (RNV), a typical pathological manifestation involved in most neovascular diseases, causes retinal detachment, vision loss, and ultimately irreversible blindness. Repeated intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF drugs were developed against RNV, with limitations of incomplete responses and adverse effects. Therefore, a new treatment with a better curative effect and more prolonged dosage is demanding. Here, we induced macrophage polarization to anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype by inhibiting cGAS-STING signaling with an antagonist C176, appreciating the role of cGAS-STING signaling in the retina in pro-inflammatory M1 polarization. C176-loaded and phosphatidylserine-modified dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles were constructed and examined by a single intravitreal injection. The biosafe nanoparticles were phagocytosed by retinal macrophages through a phosphatidylserine-mediated "eat me" signal, which persistently release C176 to suppress STING signaling and thereby promote macrophage M2 polarization specifically. A single dosage can effectively alleviate pathological angiogenesis phenotypes in murine oxygen-induced retinopathy models. In conclusion, these C176-loaded nanoparticles with enhanced cell uptake and long-lasting STING inhibition effects might serve as a promising way for treating RNV.

Breaking barriers: The potential of nanosystems in antituberculosis therapy

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, continues to pose a significant threat to global health. The resilience of TB is amplified by a myriad of physical, biological, and biopharmaceutical barriers that challenge conventional therapeutic approaches. This review navigates the intricate landscape of TB treatment, from the stealth of latent infections and the strength of granuloma formations to the daunting specters of drug resistance and altered gene expression. Amidst these challenges, traditional therapies often fail, contending with inconsistent bioavailability, prolonged treatment regimens, and socioeconomic burdens. Nanoscale Drug Delivery Systems (NDDSs) emerge as a promising beacon, ready to overcome these barriers, offering better drug targeting and improved patient adherence. Through a critical approach, we evaluate a spectrum of nanosystems and their efficacy against MTB both in vitro and in vivo. This review advocates for the intensification of research in NDDSs, heralding their potential to reshape the contours of global TB treatment strategies.

Nanoparticles in cancer theragnostic and drug delivery: A comprehensive review

This comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of how nanotechnology has revolutionized cancer theragnostic, which combines diagnostic and therapeutic methods to customize cancer treatment. The study examines the unique attributes, uses, and difficulties linked to different types of nanoparticles, including gold, iron oxide, silica, Quantum dots, Carbon nanotubes, and liposomes, in the context of cancer treatment. In addition, the paper examines the progression of nanotheranostics, emphasizing its uses in precise medication administration, photothermal therapy, and sophisticated diagnostic methods such as MRI, CT, and fluorescence imaging. Moreover, the article highlights the capacity of nanoparticles to improve the effectiveness of drugs, reduce the overall toxicity in the body, and open up new possibilities for treating cancer by releasing drugs in a controlled manner and targeting specific areas. Furthermore, it tackles concerns regarding the compatibility of nanoparticles and their potential harmful effects, emphasizing the significance of continuous study to improve nanotherapeutic methods for use in medical treatments. The review finishes by outlining potential future applications of nanotechnology in predictive oncology and customized medicine.

Reprogramming exosomes for immunity-remodeled photodynamic therapy against non-small cell lung cancer

Traditional treatments against advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with high morbidity and mortality continue to be dissatisfactory. Given this situation, there is an urgent requirement for alternative modalities that provide lower invasiveness, superior clinical effectiveness, and minimal adverse effects. The combination of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and immunotherapy gradually become a promising approach for high-grade malignant NSCLC. Nevertheless, owing to the absence of precise drug delivery techniques as well as the hypoxic and immunosuppressive characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME), the efficacy of this combination therapy approach is less than ideal. In this study, we construct a novel nanoplatform that indocyanine green (ICG), a photosensitizer, loads into hollow manganese dioxide (MnO2) nanospheres (NPs) (ICG@MnO2), and then encapsulated in PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies (anti-PD-L1) reprogrammed exosomes (named ICG@MnO2@Exo-anti-PD-L1), to effectively modulate the TME to oppose NSCLC by the synergy of PDT and immunotherapy modalities. The ICG@MnO2@Exo-anti-PD-L1 NPs are precisely delivered to the tumor sites by targeting specially PD-L1 highly expressed cancer cells to controllably release anti-PD-L1 in the acidic TME, thereby activating T cell response. Subsequently, upon endocytic uptake by cancer cells, MnO2 catalyzes the conversion of H2O2 to O2, thereby alleviating tumor hypoxia. Meanwhile, ICG further utilizes O2 to produce singlet oxygen (1O2) to kill tumor cells under 808 nm near-infrared (NIR) irradiation. Furthermore, a high level of intratumoral H2O2 reduces MnO2 to Mn2+, which remodels the immune microenvironment by polarizing macrophages from M2 to M1, further driving T cells. Taken together, the current study suggests that the ICG@MnO2@Exo-anti-PD-L1 NPs could act as a novel drug delivery platform for achieving multimodal therapy in treating NSCLC.

Biodegradable Long-Circulating Nanoagonists Optimize Tumor-Tropism Chemo-Metalloimmunotherapy for Boosted Antitumor Immunity by Cascade cGAS-STING Pathway Activation

The activation of cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) and stimulator of interferon genes (STING) has been recognized as one of the most promising immunotherapeutic strategies to induce innate antitumor immune responses. However, it is far from effective to just activate the cGAS-STING pathway, owing to abundant immunosuppressive cells that infiltrate the tumor microenvironment (TME) to impair antitumor immunity. Here, we present the smart design of biodegradable Mn-doped mesoporous silica (MM) nanoparticles with metal-organic framework (MOF) gating and hyaluronic acid (HA)-modified erythrocyte membrane (eM) camouflaging to coload cisplatin (CDDP) and SR-717 (a STING agonist) for long-circulating tumor-tropism synergistic chemo-metalloimmunotherapy by cascade cGAS-STING activation. Once internalized by tumor cells, the acidity/redox-responsive gated MOF rapidly disintegrates to release SR-717 and exposes the dual-responsive MM to decompose with CDDP release, thus inducing damage to double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) in cancer cells. As tumor-specific antigens, these dsDNA fragments released from tumor cells can trigger cGAS-STING activation and enhance dendritic cell (DC) maturation and cytotoxic T cell (CTL) infiltration, thus giving rise to excellent therapeutic effects for efficient tumor regression. Overall, this custom-designed biodegradable long-circulating nanoagonist represents a paradigm of nanotechnology in realizing the synergistic cooperation of chemotherapy and metalloimmunotherapy based on cascade cGAS-STING activation for future oncological applications.

Nanoengineering Multilength-Scale Porous Hierarchy in Mesoporous Metal-Organic Framework Single Crystals

Developing a reliable method for constructing mesoporous metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with single-crystalline forms remains a challenging task despite numerous efforts. This study presents a solvent-mediated assembly method for fabricating zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) single-crystal nanoparticles with a well-defined micro-mesoporous structure using polystyrene-block-poly(ethylene oxide) diblock copolymer micelles as a soft-template. The precise control of particle sizes, ranging from 85 to 1200 nm, is achieved by regulating nucleation and crystal growth rates while maintaining consistent pore diameters in mesoporous nanoparticles and a rhombohedral dodecahedron morphology. Furthermore, this study presents a robust platform for nanoarchitecturing to prepare hierarchically porous materials (e.g., core-shell and hollow structures), including microporous ZIF@mesoporous ZIF, hollow mesoporous ZIF, and mesoporous ZIF@mesoporous ZIF. Such a multimodal pore design, ranging from microporous to microporous/mesoporous and further micro-/meso-/macroporous, provides significant evidence for the future possibility of the structural design of MOFs.

Mussel-inspired interface deposition strategy for mesoporous metal-phenolic nanospheres with superior antioxidative, photothermal and antibacterial performance

Metal-phenolic networks (MPNs) have emerged as a versatile and multifunctional platform applied in bioimaging, disease treatment, electrocatalysis, and water purification. The synthesis of MPNs with mesoporous frameworks and ultra-small diameters (<200 nm), crucial for post-modification, cargo loading, and mass transport, remains a formidable challenge. Inspired by mussel chemistry, mesoporous metal-phenolic nanospheres (MMPNs) are facilely prepared by direct deposition of the metal-polyphenol complex on the interface of oil nano-droplets composed of block copolymers/1,3,5-trimethylbenzene followed by a spontaneous template-removal process. Due to the penetrable and stable networks, the oil nano-droplets gradually leak from the networks driven by shear stress during the stirring process. As a result, MMPNs are obtained without additional template removal procedures such as solvent extraction or high-temperature calcination. The materials have a large pore size (∼12.1 nm), uniform spherical morphology with a small particle size (∼99 nm), and a large specific surface area (49.8 m2 g-1). Due to the abundant phenolic hydroxyl groups, the MMPNs show excellent antioxidative property. The MMPNs also have excellent photothermal property, whose photothermal conversion efficiency was 40.9 %. Moreover, the phenolic hydroxyl groups can reduce Ag+ in situ to prepare Ag nanoparticles loaded MMPNs composites, which have excellent inhibition performance of drug-resistant bacteria biofilm.

In Situ Gelation Strategy for Efficient Drug Delivery in a Gastrointestinal System

Developing a microenvironment-responsive drug delivery system (DDS) for the gastrointestinal system is of great interest to enhance drug efficiency and minimize side effects. Unfortunately, the rapid-flowing digestive juice in the gastrointestinal tract and the continuous contraction and peristalsis of the gastrointestinal tract muscle accelerate the elimination of drug carriers. In this study, a boric hydroxyl-modified mesoporous Mg(OH)2 drug carrier is prepared to prolong the drug retention time. Results show that the newly designed DDS presents high biocompatibility and can immediately turn the free polyhydric alcohol molecules into a gelation form. The in situ-formed gelation network presents high viscosity and can prevent the drug carriers from being washed away by the digestive juice in the gastrointestinal tract.

Current advance of nanotechnology in diagnosis and treatment for malignant tumors

Cancer remains a significant risk to human health. Nanomedicine is a new multidisciplinary field that is garnering a lot of interest and investigation. Nanomedicine shows great potential for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Specifically engineered nanoparticles can be employed as contrast agents in cancer diagnostics to enable high sensitivity and high-resolution tumor detection by imaging examinations. Novel approaches for tumor labeling and detection are also made possible by the use of nanoprobes and nanobiosensors. The achievement of targeted medication delivery in cancer therapy can be accomplished through the rational design and manufacture of nanodrug carriers. Nanoparticles have the capability to effectively transport medications or gene fragments to tumor tissues via passive or active targeting processes, thus enhancing treatment outcomes while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. Simultaneously, nanoparticles can be employed in the context of radiation sensitization and photothermal therapy to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of malignant tumors. This review presents a literature overview and summary of how nanotechnology is used in the diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors. According to oncological diseases originating from different systems of the body and combining the pathophysiological features of cancers at different sites, we review the most recent developments in nanotechnology applications. Finally, we briefly discuss the prospects and challenges of nanotechnology in cancer.

Cancer Nanovaccines: Nanomaterials and Clinical Perspectives

Cancer nanovaccines represent a promising frontier in cancer immunotherapy, utilizing nanotechnology to augment traditional vaccine efficacy. This review comprehensively examines the current state-of-the-art in cancer nanovaccine development, elucidating innovative strategies and technologies employed in their design. It explores both preclinical and clinical advancements, emphasizing key studies demonstrating their potential to elicit robust anti-tumor immune responses. The study encompasses various facets, including integrating biomaterial-based nanocarriers for antigen delivery, adjuvant selection, and the impact of nanoscale properties on vaccine performance. Detailed insights into the complex interplay between the tumor microenvironment and nanovaccine responses are provided, highlighting challenges and opportunities in optimizing therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, the study presents a thorough analysis of ongoing clinical trials, presenting a snapshot of the current clinical landscape. By curating the latest scientific findings and clinical developments, this study aims to serve as a comprehensive resource for researchers and clinicians engaged in advancing cancer immunotherapy. Integrating nanotechnology into vaccine design holds immense promise for revolutionizing cancer treatment paradigms, and this review provides a timely update on the evolving landscape of cancer nanovaccines.

Propelling Minimally Invasive Tissue Regeneration With Next-Era Injectable Pre-Formed Scaffolds

The growing aging population, with its associated chronic diseases, underscores the urgency for effective tissue regeneration strategies. Biomaterials play a pivotal role in the realm of tissue reconstruction and regeneration, with a distinct shift toward minimally invasive (MI) treatments. This transition, fueled by engineered biomaterials, steers away from invasive surgical procedures to embrace approaches offering reduced trauma, accelerated recovery, and cost-effectiveness. In the realm of MI tissue repair and cargo delivery, various techniques are explored. While in situ polymerization is prominent, it is not without its challenges. This narrative review explores diverse biomaterials, fabrication methods, and biofunctionalization for injectable pre-formed scaffolds, focusing on their unique advantages. The injectable pre-formed scaffolds, exhibiting compressibility, controlled injection, and maintained mechanical integrity, emerge as promising alternative solutions to in situ polymerization challenges. The conclusion of this review emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary design facilitated by synergizing fields of materials science, advanced 3D biomanufacturing, mechanobiological studies, and innovative approaches for effective MI tissue regeneration.

Custom-Design of Multi-Stimuli-Responsive Degradable Silica Nanoparticles for Advanced Cancer-Specific Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is crucial in oncology for combating malignant tumors but often encounters obatacles such as severe adverse effects, drug resistance, and biocompatibility issues. The advantages of degradable silica nanoparticles in tumor diagnosis and treatment lie in their ability to target drug delivery, minimizing toxicity to normal tissues while enhancing therapeutic efficacy. Moreover, their responsiveness to both endogenous and exogenous stimuli opens up new possibilities for integrating multiple treatment modalities. This review scrutinizes the burgeoning utility of degradable silica nanoparticles in combination with chemotherapy and other treatment modalities. Commencing the elucidation of degradable silica synthesis and degradation mechanisms, emphasis is placed on the responsiveness of these materials to endogenous (e.g., pH, redox reactions, hypoxia, and enzymes) and exogenous stimuli (e.g., light and high-intensity focused ultrasound). Moreover, this exploration delves into strategies harnessing degradable silica nanoparticles in chemotherapy alone, coupled with radiotherapy, photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, gas therapy, immunotherapy, starvation therapy, and chemodynamic therapy, elucidating multimodal synergies. Concluding with an assessment of advances, challenges, and constraints in oncology, despite hurdles, future investigations are anticipated to augment the role of degradable silica in cancer therapy. These insights can serve as a compass for devising more efficacious combined tumor treatment strategies.

Theranostics Using MCM-41-Based Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles: Integrating Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Novel Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer Treatment

Advanced breast cancer remains a significant oncological challenge, requiring new approaches to improve clinical outcomes. This study investigated an innovative theranostic agent using the MCM-41-NH2-DTPA-Gd3⁺-MIH nanomaterial, which combined MRI imaging for detection and a novel chemotherapy agent (MIH 2.4Bl) for treatment. The nanomaterial was based on the mesoporous silica type, MCM-41, and was optimized for drug delivery via functionalization with amine groups and conjugation with DTPA and complexation with Gd3+. MRI sensitivity was enhanced by using gadolinium-based contrast agents, which are crucial in identifying early neoplastic lesions. MIH 2.4Bl, with its unique mesoionic structure, allows effective interactions with biomolecules that facilitate its intracellular antitumoral activity. Physicochemical characterization confirmed the nanomaterial synthesis and effective drug incorporation, with 15% of MIH 2.4Bl being adsorbed. Drug release assays indicated that approximately 50% was released within 8 h. MRI phantom studies demonstrated the superior imaging capability of the nanomaterial, with a relaxivity significantly higher than that of the commercial agent Magnevist. In vitro cellular cytotoxicity assays, the effectiveness of the nanomaterial in killing MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells was demonstrated at an EC50 concentration of 12.6 mg/mL compared to an EC50 concentration of 68.9 mg/mL in normal human mammary epithelial cells (HMECs). In vivo, MRI evaluation in a 4T1 syngeneic mouse model confirmed its efficacy as a contrast agent. This study highlighted the theranostic capabilities of MCM-41-NH2-DTPA-Gd3⁺-MIH and its potential to enhance breast cancer management.

Evaluation of the Ocular Safety of Hollow Mesoporous Organosilica Nanoparticles with Different Tetrasulfur Bond Content

Background

Drug therapy for eye diseases has been limited by multiple protective mechanisms of the eye, which can be improved using well-designed drug delivery systems. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) had been used in many studies as carriers of therapeutic agents for ocular diseases treatment. However, no studies have focused on ocular biosafety. Considering that MSNs containing tetrasulfur bonds have unique advantages and have drawn increasing attention in drug delivery systems, it is necessary to explore the ocular biosafety of tetrasulfur bonds before their widespread application as ophthalmic drug carriers.

Methods

In this study, hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSNs) with different tetrasulfur bond contents were prepared and characterized. The ocular biosafety of HMSN-E was evaluated in vitro on the three selected ocular cell lines, including corneal epithelial cells, lens epithelial cells and retinal endothelial cells (HREC), and in vivo by using topical eye drops and intravitreal injections.

Results

In cellular experiments, HMSNs caused obvious S content-dependent cytotoxic effect. HMSNs with the highest tetrasulfur bond content (HMSN-E), showed the highest cytotoxicity among all the HMSNs, and HREC was the most vulnerable cell to HMSN-E. It was shown that HMSN-E could react with intracellular GSH to generate H2S and decrease intracellular GSH concentration. Treatment of HREC with HMSN-E increased intracellular ROS, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, and induced cell cycle arrest at the G1/S checkpoint, finally caused apoptosis and necrosis of HREC. Topical eye drops of HMSN-E could cause corneal damage. The intravitreal injection of HMSN-E could induce inflammation in the vitreum and ganglion cell layers, resulting in vitreous opacities and retinal abnormalities.

Conclusion

The incorporation of tetrasulfur bonds into HMSN can have toxic effects on ocular tissues. Therefore, when mesoporous silica nanocarriers are designed for ophthalmic pharmaceuticals, the ocular toxicity of the tetrasulfur bonds should be considered.

Specific and efficient knockdown of intracellular miRNA using partially neutralized phosphate-methylated DNA oligonucleic acid-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles

Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) are molecules used to regulate RNA expression by targeting specific RNA sequences. One specific type of ASO, known as neutralized DNA (nDNA), contains site-specific methyl phosphotriester (MPTE) linkages on the phosphate backbone, changing the negatively charged DNA phosphodiester into a neutralized MPTE with designed locations. While nDNA has previously been employed as a sensitive nucleotide sequencing probe for the PCR, the potential of nDNA in intracellular RNA regulation and gene therapy remains underexplored. Our study aims to evaluate the regulatory capacity of nDNA as an ASO probe in cellular gene expression. We demonstrated that by tuning MPTE locations, partially and intermediately methylated nDNA loaded onto mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) can effectively knock down the intracellular miRNA, subsequently resulting in downstream mRNA regulation in colorectal cancer cell HCT116. Additionally, the nDNA ASO-loaded MSNs exhibit superior efficacy in reducing miR-21 levels over 72 hours compared to the efficacy of canonical DNA ASO-loaded MSNs. The reduction in the miR-21 level subsequently resulted in the enhanced mRNA levels of tumour-suppressing genes PTEN and PDCD4. Our findings underscore the potential of nDNA in gene therapies, especially in cancer treatment via a fine-tuned methylation location.

Facile synthesis of elastin nanogels encapsulated decursin for castrated resistance prostate cancer therapy

Nanogels offer hope for precise drug delivery, while addressing drug delivery hurdles is vital for effective prostate cancer (PCa) management. We developed an injectable elastin nanogels (ENG) for efficient drug delivery system to overcome castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) by delivering Decursin, a small molecule inhibitor that blocks Wnt/βcatenin pathways for PCa. The ENG exhibited favourable characteristics such as biocompatibility, flexibility, and low toxicity. In this study, size, shape, surface charge, chemical composition, thermal stability, and other properties of ENG were used to confirm the successful synthesis and incorporation of Decursin (DEC) into elastin nanogels (ENG) for prostate cancer therapy. In vitro studies demonstrated sustained release of DEC from the ENG over 120 h, with a pH-dependent release pattern. DU145 cell line induces moderate cytotoxicity of DEC-ENG indicates that nanomedicine has an impact on cell viability and helps strike a balance between therapeutics efficacy and safety while the EPR effect enables targeted drug delivery to prostate tumor sites compared to free DEC. Morphological analysis further supported the effectiveness of DEC-ENG in inducing cell death. Overall, these findings highlight the promising role of ENG-encapsulated decursin as a targeted drug delivery system for CRPC.

Development of elliptic core-shell nanoparticles with fluorinated surfactants for 19F MRI

Perfluorocarbon-encapsulated silica nanoparticles possess attractive features such as biological inertness and favorable colloidal properties for bioimaging with fluorine magnetic resonance imaging (19F MRI). Herein, a series of elliptic shaped silica nanoparticles with perfluorocarbon liquid perfluoro-15-crown-5 ether as core (PFCE@SiO2) were synthesized using fluorinated surfactants N-(perfluorononylmethyl)-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (C10-TAC) and N-(perfluoroheptylmethyl)-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride (C8-TAC). The nanoparticles are characterized to obtain elliptic core-shell structures. PFCE@SiO2 showed strong 19F NMR signals of the encapsulated PFCE, indicating the potential as a highly sensitive 19F MRI probe. These elliptic PFCE@SiO2 nanoparticles provide a new option of 19F MRI probe with a morphology different from conventional nanospheres.

Conformation-Switchable Polypeptides as Molecular Gates for Controllable Drug Release

The control over secondary structure has been widely studied to regulate the properties of polypeptide materials, which is used to change their functions in situ for various biomedical applications. Herein, we designed and constructed enzyme-responsive polypeptides as gating materials for mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), which underwent a distorted structure-to-helix transition to promote the release of encapsulated drugs. The polypeptide conjugated on the MSN surface adopted a negatively charged, distorted, flexible conformation, covering the pores of MSN to prevent drug leakage. Upon triggering by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) overproduced by tumor cells, the polypeptide transformed into positively charged, α-helical, rigid conformation with potent membrane-penetrating capabilities, which protruded from the MSN surface to uncover the pores. Such a transition thus enabled cancer-selective drug release and cellular internalization to efficiently kill tumor cells. This study highlights the important role of chain flexibility in modulating the biological function of polypeptides and provides a new application paradigm for synthetic polypeptides with secondary-structure transition.

Porous protein crystals: synthesis and applications

Large-pore protein crystals (LPCs) are an emerging class of biomaterials. The inherent diversity of proteins translates to a diversity of crystal lattice structures, many of which display large pores and solvent channels. These pores can, in turn, be functionalized via directed evolution and rational redesign based on the known crystal structures. LPCs possess extremely high solvent content, as well as extremely high surface area to volume ratios. Because of these characteristics, LPCs continue to be explored in diverse applications including catalysis, targeted therapeutic delivery, templating of nanostructures, structural biology. This Feature review article will describe several of the existing platforms in detail, with particular focus on LPC synthesis approaches and reported applications.

Light-induced Delivery of Charged Species using Ion-selective Core-Shell Nanoparticles

Controlled release systems have gained considerable attention owing to their potential to deliver molecules, including ions and drugs, in a customized manner. We present a light-induced ion-transfer platform consisting of a dispersion of nanoparticles (NPs, ~300 nm) with the conductive polymer poly(3-octylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (POT) in the core and a potassium (K+)-selective membrane in the shell. Owing to the photoactive nature of POT, POT NPs can be used for a dual purpose: as a host for positively charged species and as an actuator to trigger the subsequent release. POT0 and doped POT+ coexist in the core, allowing K+ encapsulation in the shell. As POT0 is photo-oxidized to POT+, K+ is released to the (aqueous) dispersion phase to preserve the neutrality of the NPs. This process is reversible and can be simultaneously assessed using the native fluorescence of POT0 and via potentiometric measurements. The NP structure and its mechanism of action were thoroughly studied with a series of control experiments and complementary techniques. Understanding the NP and its surrounding interactions will pave the way for other nanostructured systems, facilitating sophisticated applications. The delivery of ionic drugs and interference/pollutant catching for advanced sensing/restoration will be considered in future research.