Isothiocyanate-Functionalized Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles as Building Blocks for the Design of Nanovehicles with Optimized Drug Release Profile.

A straightforward methodology for the synthesis of isothiocyanate-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) by exposure of aminated MSNs to 1,1'-thiocarbonyldi-2(1)-pyridone is reported. These nanoparticles are chemically stable, water tolerant, and readily react with primary amines without the formation of any by-product. This feature allows the easy modification of the surface of the nanoparticles for tuning their physical properties and the introduction of gatekeepers on the pore outlets.

Preparation of a mesoporous silica-based nano-vehicle for dual DOX/CPT pH-triggered delivery.

A dual doxorubicin/camptothecin (DOX/CPT) pH-triggered drug delivery mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSN)-based nano-vehicle has been prepared. In this drug-delivery system (DDS), CPT is loaded inside the pores of the MSNs, while DOX is covalently attached to the surface of an aldehyde-functionalized MSN through a dihydrazide-polyethylene glycol chain. Thus, DOX and the linker act as pH-sensitive gatekeeper.

Modifications of microvascular EC surface modulate phototoxicity of a porphycene anti-ICAM-1 immunoconjugate; therapeutic implications.

Inflammation and shear stress can upregulate expression of cellular adhesion molecules in endothelial cells (EC). The modified EC surface becomes a mediating interface between the circulating blood elements and the endothelium, and grants opportunity for immunotherapy. In photodynamic therapy (PDT), immunotargeting might overcome the lack of selectivity of currently used sensitizers.