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This work reports the amine and mercapto bi-functionalized mesoporous silica MCM-41 for heavy metal ions removal from aqueous solutions. XRD, FTIR and N2 adsorption–desorption analyses confirmed that a series of bi-functionalized mesoporous silica MCM-41 with huge specific surface area were successfully obtained. In aqueous solution, the adsorption performance were evaluated by the adsorption of Zn(II), Cu(II), Cr(III) and Pb(II). The obtained results indicate that synthesis process has no significant influence on the structure and the existence of functional group resulted in outstanding adsorption capacity. The methodology of pre-hydrolysis was one effective treatment for grafting useful functional group on to mesoporous silica. The adsorption reactions for the adsorption of heavy metal ions by bi-functionalized silica-based mesoporous materials were spontaneous adsorption processes over the range of experimental temperatures. The adsorption isotherm is consistent with the Freundlich adsorption isotherms model. The Freundlich parameters KF and n indicated favorable adsorption. The adsorption kinetics of heavy metalions over these bi-functionalized mesoporous silica could be well described by pseudo-second-order models. Therefore, this bi-functionalized mesoporous material has promise for the removal and recovery of heavy metal ions from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myocardial infarction accompanied by diabetes mellitus is accepted as the most serious type of coronary heart disease, and among the current treatment strategies, the precise delivery of protective drugs for inhibiting cardiomyocyte apoptosis is still a challenge. In this study, we developed a biodegradable nanoparticles‐based delivery system with excellent macrophage escape, cardiac targeting, and drug release properties to achieve targeted therapy of myocardial infarction. Specifically, a copolymer of p(DMA–MPC–CD) combining self‐adhesion, hydration lubrication, and targeting peptide binding site was successfully prepared by free radical copolymerization, and it was self‐assembled on the surface of melatonin‐loaded dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (bMSNs) following the integration of adamantane‐modified cardiac homing peptide (CHP) based on supramolecular host–guest interaction. Importantly, a hydration layer formed around the zwitterionic phosphorylcholine groups of the multifunctional nanoparticles, which was confirmed by the enhancement in hydration lubrication and reduction in coefficient of friction, prevented the nanoparticles from phagocytosis by the macrophages. The in vivo bioluminescence imaging test indicated that the nanoparticles were endowed with satisfied cardiac targeting capability, and the in vivo mice study demonstrated that the intravenous injection of drug‐loaded nanoparticles (namely bMSNs–Mel@PDMC–CHP) effectively reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis, alleviated myocardial interstitial fibrosis, and enhanced cardiac function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Bufalin (BA) is a potent traditional Chinese medicine derived from toad venom. It has shown significant antitumor activity, but its use is limited by cardiotoxicity, which necessitates innovative delivery methods, such as rod-shaped mesoporous silica nanoparticles (rMSNs). rMSNs have been extensively employed for reducing drug toxicity and for controlled or targeted drug delivery in tumor therapy. However, their potential in delivering BA has not been completely elucidated. Therefore, in this study, BA-loaded rMSNs (BA-rMSNs) were developed to investigate their potential and mechanism in impairing colon cancer cells. Methods: rMSNs were developed via the sol‒gel method. Drug encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity were determined to investigate the advantages of the rMSN in loading BA. The antiproliferative activities of the BA-rMSNs were investigated via 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine and CCK-8. To evaluate cell death, Annexin V-APC/PI apoptotic and calcein-AM/PI double staining were performed. Western blotting, oil red O staining, and Nile red solution were employed to determine the ability of BA-rMSNs to regulate lipophagy. Results: The diameter of the BA-rMSNs was approximately 60 nm. In vitro studies demonstrated that BA-rMSNs markedly inhibited HCT 116 and HT-29 cell proliferation and induced cell death. In vivo studies revealed that BA-rMSNs reduced BA-mediated cardiotoxicity and enhanced BA tumor targeting. Mechanistic studies revealed that BA-rMSNs blocked lipophagy. Conclusions: rMSNs reduced BA-mediated cardiotoxicity and impaired the growth of colon cancer cells. Mechanistically, antitumor activity depends on lipophagy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paraptosis is a non‐apoptotic and caspase‐independent programmed cell death that can trigger immunogenic cell death (ICD) in tumor cells, representing a potent tactic to overcome immune tolerance to apoptosis. Here, this study demonstrates the construction of a dual‐responsive nanoreactor (MCGDH) to achieve paraptosis‐mediated ICD for chemo‐immunotherapy. Specifically, by doping Cu2+ into glutathione (GSH)‐responsive dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles, the platform (CGDMSN) is endowed with partial acid‐sensitivity. After loaded with 8‐hydroxyquinoline (8‐HQ), cell membrane fragments are coated onto the ammoniated CGDMSN surface to construct MCGDH. Upon internalization by tumor cells, the release of Cu2+ and 8‐HQ from MCGDH in response to the acidic pH and high concentration of GSH in the tumor microenvironment stimulates in situ generation of Cu(8‐HQ)2, inducing tumor cells paraptosis at a low copper dose. Moreover, MCGDH‐mediated paraptosis amplifies the immunogenicity of tumor cells, facilitating antigen presentation to dendritic cells and activating CD8+/CD4+ T cells immune responses. Furthermore, the combination of MCGDH and anti‐PD‐1 antibodies (αPD‐1) promotes the systemic anti‐tumor immune responses and long‐term immunological effect to vastly inhibit the primary/distant tumor growth and prevent tumor metastasis. This GSH/pH dual‐responsive nanoreactor serves as a selective platform for accelerating the development of chemo‐immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface plasmon resonance of precious metal gold nanorods can be tuned by controlling the aspect ratio, and they find widespread applications in biotechnology, imaging, sensing, optoelectronics, photonics, and catalysis. Here, a method is proposed for the controlled etching of gold nanorods within mesoporous silica shells by using a certain concentration of H2O2 at room temperature. In the experiments, the amount of HCl is varied to adjust the acidity and/or change the amount of H2O2 to control the speed of corrosion, achieving controllable adjustment of the aspect ratio of the gold nanorods. The extinction spectra show that under the action of H2O2 and HCl, the longitudinal plasmonic resonance of the gold nanorods shifted to shorter wavelengths, and the intensity of the longitudinal plasmonic resonance decreased. The more hydrochloric acid or hydrogen peroxide added, the faster the corrosion rate of the gold nanorods, and the faster the blue shift of the longitudinal plasmonic resonance. In addition, the intensity of the extinction spectra at 320 nm increased linearly versus time, which can also be used to monitor the etching process. By corroding gold nanorods to control the plasmonic resonances, gold nanorods can find broader applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A highly stable single-excitation double-emission long afterglow phosphor is reported for use in dynamic anti-counterfeiting. The red phosphor ZnCaGa2O4:Cr3+ was introduced into the pores of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) by in situ polymerization, and the green phosphor SrAl2O4:Eu2+,Dy3+, when embedded in silicon dioxide, provided a long-lasting waterproof afterglow. The anti-counterfeiting material emits red light under UV excitation at 254 nm and, on stopping the excitation, produces a long-lasting green afterglow. Traditional anti-counterfeiting methods often require the use of a variety of different excitation light sources to achieve different luminous effects, while this innovative material requires only one excitation light source to achieve red light and green afterglow, and greatly simplifies the preparation process of anti-counterfeiting materials. In addition, this material is highly stable and can maintain its luminescent properties for a long time under various environmental conditions and is not prone to fading or degradation. Single-excitation dual-emission long afterglow anti-counterfeiting materials can effectively prevent products from being counterfeited, and this study provides new ideas and methods for technological innovation in the field of anti-counterfeiting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intracellular bacterial (ICB) infection is one of the most life‐threatening cases of drug resistance, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) is challenged by limited light penetration into tissues and unspecific toxicity to host cells. Herein, theranostic nanoparticles (NPs) are developed to facilitate on‐demand activation of photosensitizers inside ICBs and persistent PDT of deep‐tissue ICB infections. Mechanoluminescent SrAl2O4:Eu2+ and persistence luminescent CaS:Eu2+ are sequentially deposited on mesoporous silica to prepare mSC, followed by encapsulation by bacterial membranes with loaded nitroreductase (NTR)‐activatable methylene blue (nMB) to obtain mSC‐nMB@BM NPs. The fluorescence quenching of nMB with mSC offers few cytotoxicities even under ultrasonication, and bacterial membrane coatings mediate the specific NP internalization into ICB‐infected macrophages. Bacterial pore‐forming toxins trigger nMB release from NPs, and intrabacterial NTR rejuvenates methylene blue probes from nMB for real‐time imaging of ICB infections. Ultrasonication of NPs continuously excites the rejuvenated methylene blue to generate reactive oxidative species and reduce viable ICBs by 3.54 log magnitude folds. NP treatment on ICB‐infected mice exhibits full survival and restores viscera functions without any pathological abnormality. Therefore, this concise NP design demonstrates capabilities of bacterial membrane‐mediated specific internalization, bacterial toxin‐triggered release and intrabacterial NTR‐rejuvenation of fluorescent probes, and persistent internal light‐illumination for ICB theranostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selective oxidation is one of the primary methods used to synthesize high‐value‐added oxygen‐containing organic compounds from alkenes. In particular, the selective oxidation of natural cinnamaldehyde has gained prominence as one of the main routes to produce natural benzaldehyde, which is in short supply in the global spice market. In this study, FeSBA catalysts were synthesized by supporting Fe2O3 onto the surface of spherical SBA‐15 using pore‐induced deposition for the selective oxidation of cinnamaldehyde to benzaldehyde. The Fe2O3 supporting increased the specific surface area of SBA‐15 by approximately eightfold and significantly improved the utilization efficiency of the reaction sites on Fe2O3. Additionally, the formation of Fe−O−Si bonds by Fe2O3 and SBA‐15 promoted the generation of weak‐acidic sites on the catalyst surface, significantly increasing the oxygen‐physisorption capacity of Fe2O3. Furthermore, quenching experiments confirmed the generation of significant amounts of O2− and singlet‐oxygen species on the FeSBA surface. Theoretical calculations confirmed that the physisorption and chemisorption of cinnamaldehyde and oxygen, respectively, on the FeSBA surface promoted the formation of a tetrameric intermediate. These results contribute significantly to research on the selective oxidation theory of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes to aldehydes using oxygen and could guide future studies aimed at elucidating and improving the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have displayed high‐potential prospects in biomedical use, especially for drug delivery due to large surface area, tunable pore size and simple surface functionalization. The objective behind the present research is to synthesize and profile piperine‐modified MSNs for their preparation due to antioxidative anticarcinogenic, anti‐inflammatory properties of the alkaloid chosen as a modifier. In the study, silica piperine nanoparticles (SPN) were fabricated based on a modified Stöber method. Characterization techniques including SEM, TEM, AFM, FTIR, XRD, and DSC showed significant differences of incorporated piperine in the production process to plain MSN properties. Piperine was observed to inhibit nanoparticles’ growth so that they became smaller, heterogeneous, with a changed morphology and surface chemistry. As a strong confirmation of covalent incorporation, spectroscopic data showed the presence of electrons in the piperine's functional group that were exchanged into some silanol groups and removed excessive surface energy. The antioxidant activity of SPNs revealed that the silica matrix, and moreover bioactive piperine combination resulted to significant increase in enhanced antioxidant potential. In general, the results of this study offer meaningful lessons about the utilization and manipulation of piperine to suit MSN in a bid to optimize them for biomedical uses such as drug delivery applications where its antioxidant characteristics may bring therapeutic benefits. This holistic characterization and standardization of piperine‐modified MSNs sets the solid stage for further project practice and advance adjustment in aluminosilicate nanostructures designed for biomedical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Development of novel abrasive systems with functional activities and physicochemical properties are of great significance in the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-enhanced chemical mechanical polishing. In this work, Ce single-doped and Ce/Cu co-doped dendritic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (DMSNs), namely Ce−DMSNs and Ce/Cu−DMSNs, were produced via a simple impregnation and thermolysis procedure. The Ce and/or Cu species involved in DMSNs frameworks were characterized through X-ray diffractometry, infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and nitrogen adsorption/desorption techniques. We report the evolution of surface morphology and roughness, defects, peak-to-valley data, image surface area difference, and material removal efficiency during ROS-enhanced polishing experiments toward silica materials. All the pure, Ce single-doped, and Ce/Cu co-doped DMSNs abrasive systems offered nearly defect-free surfaces with close-to-atom scale roughness. It might be attributed to the "springlike effect" and "soft polishing/abrasion", possibly originating from the low-modulus DMSNs carriers. Among these abrasives, the Ce/Cu co-doped DMSNs systems achieved an evident improvement in removal efficiency, especially under ultraviolet irradiation-assisted polishing conditions. The coexisted Ce(Ⅲ)/Ce(Ⅳ) and Cu(Ⅰ)/Cu(Ⅱ) couples might be responsible for the effective production of ROS in photocatalysis and Fenton-like processes, thereby contributing to the Si–OH and Ce(Ⅲ)−O–Si bonding formations. The role of the developed Ce/Cu co-doped DMSNs abrasive systems in ROS-enhanced polishing processes was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractSilica nanoparticles are increasingly considered for drug delivery applications. These applications require an understanding of their biocompatibility, including their interactions with the immune system. However, systematic studies for silica nanoparticle immunological safety profiles are lacking. To fill this gap, we conducted an in vitro study investigating various aspects of silica nanoparticles’ interactions with blood and immune cells. Four types of silica nanoparticles with variations in size and porosity were studied. These included nonporous Stöber silica nanoparticles with average diameters of approximately 50 and 100 nm (SNP50 and SNP100), mesoporous silica nanoparticles of approximately 100 nm (Meso100), and hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles of approximately 100 nm (HMSNP100) in diameter, respectively. The hematological compatibility was assessed using hemolysis, complement activation, platelet aggregation, and plasma coagulation assays. The effects of nanoparticles on immune cell function were studied using in vitro phagocytosis, chemotaxis, natural killer cell cytotoxicity, leukocyte proliferation, human lymphocyte activation, colony-forming unit granulocyte-macrophage, and leukocyte procoagulant activity assays. The in vitro findings suggest that at high concentrations, corresponding to the in vivo human dose of 40 mg/kg, silica nanoparticles demonstrated an array of immunotoxic effects that depended on their physicochemical properties. However, all types of silica nanoparticles studied were not immunotoxic at concentrations corresponding to lower doses (≤ 8 mg/kg) comparable to that of nanocarriers in other nanomedicines currently used in the clinic. These findings are promising for using silica nanoparticles for the systemic delivery of bioactive and imaging agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thiol‐functionalized mesoporous silica and materials potentially dedicated to diverse applications of composite materials, metal colloids, and metal catalysts, etc. Here, we developed a new synthesis route for 3‐methacryloxypropyl trimethoxy silane (MPTMS) functionalized mesoporous silica (KIT‐6), achieving a 71.5 % enhancement in thiol functionalization on KIT‐6 surfaces. Characterization using XRD, TEM, BET, FTIR, Raman, 29Si NMR, XPS, and ICP‐OES revealed structural and morphological features. XRD, TEM, and BET confirmed the three‐dimensional structural stabilization of mesoporous silica with ~4 nm pore diameter and a surface area of 1451 m2 g−1. FTIR, Raman, and 29Si NMR studies established the mechanism of thiol functionalization, the formation of a new wormhole chain structural framework (WCSF), and stabilization through hydrogen bonding within the mesopores. The 29Si NMR spectra showed characteristic peaks (T3, T2, Q4, Q3) indicating self‐condensed functionalized thiols with siloxane networks. XPS analysis validated enhanced thiol functionalization, indicating a structurally homogeneous WCSF suitable for mercury adsorption. ICP‐OES measured a mercury adsorption capacity of 3199.6 mg g−1 for KIT‐6, with an Hg2+/S ratio of 1.8, corroborated by molecular structure and mechanism analysis. This innovative thiol functionalization approach enhances the efficacy of applications such as extracting Hg2+ from contaminated sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personal radiative cooling fabrics are a promising zero‐energy solution for creating a cool and comfortable microclimate for outdoor crowds. Despite significant progress, achieving efficient radiative cooling under some extreme situations, such as thermal shock and intensive physical activity, remains a challenge. Herein, a bioinspired metafabric with a dual‐gradient Janus design is reported for personal radiative and evaporative cooling. The hierarchical fiber structure allows for an excellent solar reflectance of 99.4% and mid‐infrared emittance of 0.94, inducing a skin temperature drop of 17.8 °C under intense sunlight. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles fixed in the fibrous network can store evaporative cooling capacity by atmospheric moisture‐absorption in the mild and humid nighttime and release such cooling capacity by moisture‐desorption in the hot daytime, providing an additional skin temperature drop of 2.5 °C. Dual‐gradient Janus design endows the metafabric with an outstanding sweat‐wicking effect and high‐performance sweat evaporative cooling capacity. In the steady‐state evaporation tests, a maximum sweat consumption of only 0.5 ml h−1 can cool the skin to a comfortable temperature, preventing harmful excessive sweating. Additionally, the bioinspired metafabric also possesses favorable wearability and color expansibility. Given these first‐rate features, the bioinspired metafabric will pave the way for the development of advanced functional fabrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyolefin separators, such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) separators, are the commonly used separators for lithium batteries, which have good mechanical properties and chemical/electrochemical stability, but their high‐temperature dimensional stability is poor and Li+ transference number (t Li+) is low. Recently, much attention has been paid to developing separators with new substrates, but so far there is no separator to replace the polyolefin separator for large‐scale application. Therefore, the surface modification of the polyolefin separator to enhance its functionality is a simple and effective method. Among many modified layers, the porous modified layer can store the electrolyte and provide enough space for ion transport. In this work, a hollow mesoporous silica nanosphere (mSiO2) is prepared for the PP separator multifunctional coating to improve the electrochemical performance and high‐temperature safety of the PP separator. The experimental and theoretical results show that the mSiO2 coating can not only improve the electrolyte wettability and high‐temperature dimensional stability of the PP separator, but also promote the Li+ transport, so that the mSiO2/PP separator exhibits high ionic conductivity (2.35 mS cm−1) and high t Li+ (0.63). As a result, Li//LiFePO4 cells using mSiO2/PP separators exhibit excellent cycling performance, rate performance, and high‐temperature safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although molecular tetrahedral Ti-oxo species exhibit unique electronic and photochemical properties due to their discrete energy levels, which are different from those of anatase and rutile, such Ti-oxo species are generally unstable and readily transformed to amorphous/crystalline TiO2 (bulk phases, nanoparticles and clusters) via hydrolysis and condensation. Here, molecular Ti-oxo species were immobilised within mesoporous silica SBA-15 by grafting titanium(IV) oxyacetylacetonate using the surface silanol groups of SBA-15 as a scaffold, followed by chemical etching with dilute hydrochloric acid to form molecular TiO4 species. These Ti species mainly exist as isolated tetrahedrally coordinated structures, as was confirmed by diffuse reflectance UV-vis and Raman spectroscopy. The SBA-15-immobilised molecular TiO4 exhibited higher photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution from an aqueous methanol solution than conventional Ti-incorporated mesoporous silica (Ti-MCM-41) and reference TiO2 (P25). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, amine-functionalized and Ni(II)-immobilized mesoporous silica materials were synthesized. This research aimed to synthesize mesoporous silica based on rice husk ash functionalized with amine and immobilized with Ni(II). The activity of amine-functionalized and Ni(II)-immobilized mesoporous silica materials was studied for the acetylation of benzyl alcohol with acetic anhydride as the acetylating agent. First, mesoporous silica was synthesized using rice husk ash using the sol-gel method, followed by amine functionalization using (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) and Ni(II) immobilization through ultrasonic treatment. The results obtained showed that amine-functionalized and Ni(II)- immobilized mesoporous silica (SiO2/APTES/Ni(II)) were successfully synthesized, confirmed by Fourier transform infrared and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry data. In addition, the synthesized materials had an average pore diameter of 12.83 nm. Afterward, the catalytic activity test showed that SiO2/APTES/Ni(II) was able to convert 98.34% of benzyl alcohol in the acetylation reaction at 45 °C for 5 h. The use of the SiO2/APTES/Ni(II) catalyst for three cycles obtained percent conversion values with a slight decreases (98.34%, 95.20%, and 90.61%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Designing and manufacturing controlled drug release systems can be highly beneficial in improving drug treatment methods. The aim of this study is to synthesize SBA-16 nanosilica and evaluate its use as a drug carrier for carbamazepine. Additionally, this research aims to assess the effects of pH, contact time, temperature, initial drug concentration, and adsorbent amount on the performance efficiency of the drug carrier. Materials and Methods: In this study, carbamazepine (obtained from the Food and Drug Organization of Iran), double-distilled water, 1-butanol, hydrochloric acid, pluronic copolymer F127, tetraethyl orthosilicate, and sodium hydroxide were used. All chemicals were sourced from Sigma-Aldrich and Merck. A dialysis bag manufactured by Sigma-Aldrich (14000 MWCO, 99.99% retention) was used for drug release experiments. The equipment used in this research includes a digital scale (EJ 303), pH meter (ST 2100), oven (Memmert), magnetic stirrer (HOTPLATE STIRRER 81), electric furnace (Shimaz), FT-IR device (Magna-IR Spectrometer 550 Nicolet), X-ray diffraction device (STADIP), scanning electron microscope (MIRA3-LMU), UV-Vis spectrophotometer (DB20-UV), and BET analyzer (NanoSORD92). SBA-16 was synthesized using the sol-gel method. XRD, FTIR, SEM, and EDX analyses were employed to identify and characterize the synthesized adsorbent. The effects of pH, adsorbent amount (nanocarrier), drug concentration, temperature, and contact time were evaluated using the response surface method (RSM) with the central composite design (CCD) in the Design of Experiments software (DOE) to determine optimal conditions and maximum drug loading capacity. Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin adsorption isotherms were used for adsorption studies, and thermodynamic and kinetic studies were also conducted. The dialysis method was applied for drug release experiments, providing physical separation and allowing easy sampling at different time intervals Results: In this study, SBA-16 nanosilica was successfully synthesized, and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of the SBA-16 surface demonstrated that it had a spherical and homogeneous morphology with particle sizes ranging from 2 to 50 nm. Additionally, the XRD spectrum showed that SBA-16 had a regular structure. Experiment design was used to investigate the effects of key parameters. After conducting the tests, the results were input into the software to generate the best model for evaluating and describing the data. Of the four models (linear, interaction, quadratic, and cubic), the software proposed the quadratic model as the most consistent with the responses. According to the software output, the nanocarrier was able to adsorb 99.87% of carbamazepine under optimal conditions (pH=2, initial drug concentration=20 ppm, drug carrier amount=0.05 g, temperature = 30°C, and contact time=12 minutes). The adsorption data fit the Langmuir isotherm most closely (R²=0.9996). Thermodynamic studies revealed that the adsorption process is spontaneous, exothermic, and physical, following first-order kinetics. The drug release data corresponded with the theoretical kinetic model presented by Zeng et al. (2012) for drug release from mesoporous silica nanoparticles, which assumes an initial burst release in the early hours followed by a slow and steady release. Conclusion: The nanocarrier introduced in this research is a water-insoluble, non-toxic, and highly effective adsorbent for loading the drug carbamazepine. The results demonstrated that, under optimal conditions, the drug loading efficiency reached 99.87%. Additionally, the study showed controlled drug release. The adsorption process followed the Langmuir isotherm with a regression coefficient of 0.9991, while drug release followed the first-order kinetic model with a regression coefficient of 0.9996. Thermodynamic results indicated that the drug loading process is exothermic and spontaneous [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have emerged as promising drug carriers that can facilitate targeted anticancer drug delivery, but efficiency studies relying on active targeting mechanisms remain elusive. This study implements in vitro 3D cocultures, so‐called microtissues, to model a physiologically relevant tumor microenvironment (TME) to examine the impact of surface‐modified MSNs without targeting ligands on the internalization, cargo delivery, and cargo release in tumor cells and cancer‐associated fibroblasts. Among these, acetylated MSNs most effectively localized in tumor cells in a 3D setting containing collagen, while other MSNs did so to a lesser degree, most likely due to remaining trapped in the extracellular matrix of the TME. Confocal imaging of hydrophobic model drug‐loaded MSNs demonstrated effective cargo release predominantly in tumor cells, both in 2D and 3D cocultures. MSN‐mediated delivery of an anticancer drug in the microtissues exhibited a significant reduction in tumor organoid size and enhanced the tumor‐specific cytotoxic effects of a γ‐secretase inhibitor, compared to the highly hydrophobic drug in free form. This inherent targeting potential suggests reduced off‐target effects and increased drug efficacy, showcasing the promise of surface modification of MSNs as a means of direct cell‐specific targeting and delivery for precise and successful targeted drug delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles (NPs) are receiving increasing interest in biomedical applications. However, due to their large surface area, in physiological environments, they tend to interact with plasma proteins, inducing their agglomeration and ultimately resulting in a substantial efficiency decrease in diagnostic and therapeutic applications. To overcome such problems, NPs are typically coated with a layer of hydrophilic and biocompatible polymers, such as PEG chains. However, few examples exist in which this property could be systematically fine-tuned and combined with added properties, such as emission. Herein, we report a novel mussel-inspired catechol-based strategy to obtain biocompatible and multifunctional coatings, using a previously developed polymerization methodology based on the formation of disulfide bridges under mild oxidative conditions. Two families of NPs were selected as the proof of concept: mesoporous silica NPs (MSNPs), due to their stability and known applications, and magnetite NPs (Fe3O4 NPs), due to their small size (<10 nm) and magnetic properties. The PEG coating confers biocompatibility on the NPs and can be further functionalized with bioactive molecules, such as glucose units, through the end carboxylic acid moieties. Once we demonstrated the feasibility of our approach to obtaining PEG-based coatings on different families of NPs, we also obtained multifunctional coatings by incorporating fluorescein functionalities. The resulting coatings not only confer biocompatibility and excellent cell internalization, but also allow for the imaging and tracking of NPs within cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SBA-15 and organic ionic liquid were incorporated in a post-grafting technique for generating a bifunctional ionic liquid embedded mesoporous SBA-15. The prepared heterogeneous catalyst was employed for the first time to synthesize N-alkylated indoline-2,3-dione at mild conditions to afford excellent yields in a short reaction time. The synthesized DABCOIL@SBA-15 catalyst was meticulously characterized by various techniques, such as FT-IR, solid-state 13C NMR, solid-state 29Si NMR, small-angle X-ray diffraction (XRD), and N2 adsorption–desorption. Further, the morphological behavior of the catalyst was studied by SEM and TEM. The thermal stability and number of active sites were determined by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The Hammett equation was used to analyze the synergetic effect of the catalyst and substituent effects on the N-alkylated products of 5-substituted isatin derivatives, which resulted in a negative slope. This negative slope indicates a positive charge in the transition state. Notably, the DABCOIL@SBA-15 catalyst demonstrated its practicality by being reused for seven cycles with consistently high catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent decades, immunotherapy has been considered a promising treatment approach. The modulatable enhancement or attenuation of the body's immune response can effectively suppress tumors. However, challenges persist in clinical applications due to the lack of precision in antigen presentation to immune cells, immune escape mechanisms, and immunotherapy-mediated side effects. As a potential delivery system for drugs and immunomodulators, mesoporous silica has attracted extensive attention recently. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) possess high porosity, a large specific surface area, excellent biocompatibility, and facile surface modifiability, making them suitable as multifunctional carriers in immunotherapy. This article summarizes the latest advancements in the application of MSNs as carriers in cancer immunotherapy, aiming to stimulate further exploration of the immunomodulatory mechanisms and the development of immunotherapeutics based on MSNs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous silica, as a drug carrier, has become the new research focus in the field of nanodrug delivery system in recent years. In this study, Mn-doped mesoporous silicas are synthesized by template and in-situ doping method and physically characterized. The drug-loading performance of silica and its impact on drug release are studied. The Mn-doped mesoporous silicas show dendritic morphology (MDMS) with a loose wrinkle structure on the surface and a large number of pores. MDMS is used as a carrier to solve the problem of low water solubility of paclitaxel. In order to avoid leakage during drug transportation, the surface of Mn-doped mesoporous silica loaded with paclitaxel is coated with N-succinyl chitosan to construct a new type of nanodrug delivery system (MDMS-PTX-NSC). Compared to MDMS, MDMS-PTX-NSC shows an increase in particle size and smooth surface. The dissolution characteristics of manganese ions and swelling behavior of N-succinyl chitosan make MDMS-PTX-NSC delivery system exhibit a good pH-responsive release. And MDMS-PTX-NSC release curve can be well fitted by Ritger-Peppas equation. The cytotoxicity test shows that the MDMS-PTX-NSC has significant biocompatibility and enhanced cytotoxicity, which reveals that the MDMS-PTX-NSC is a promising nanodrug delivery system. By template and in-situ doping method, Mn-doped dendritic mesoporous silica (MDMS) was prepared, which was then loaded with paclitaxel (PTX) and coated using a N-succinyl chitosan (NSC) to develop a new nanodrug delivery system (MDMS-PTX-NSC). Due to the dissolution characteristics of manganese ions and swelling behavior of N-succinyl chitosan, the MDMS-PTX-NSC delivery system exhibited a sufficient pH-responsive release, significant biocompatibility, and enhanced cytotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New magnetic yolk-shell mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Fe3O4@V-mSiO2-PNVCL) were prepared by grafting temperature-sensitive amino-terminated poly (N-vinylcaprolactam) (PNVCL-NH2) on the surface of aldehyde-functionalized magnetic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Fe3O4@V-mSiO2-CHO) through a Schiff base reaction. Various characterizations were used to confirm the structures, and the drug loading and release behaviors were studied. The drug loading was achieved as PNVCL stretched at room temperature and the drug loading content was up to 54.7% due to the large cavities. The encapsulation of drug from leakage in the blood environment was realized as PNVCL collapsed at physiological temperature. The fracture of pH-liable imine bonds in a slightly acidic tumor environment triggered the burst release of cargo. The Fe3O4@V-mSiO2-PNVCL showed super paramagnetic behavior (21.01 emu∙g−1) which could achieve magnetic targeting. The MTT assay confirmed that the nanoparticles exhibited low cytotoxicity. Furthermore, the cellular uptake experiments indicated that DOX-loaded nanoparticles were successfully internalized into cancer cells. Therefore, the composite nanoparticles are ideal choices for drug carriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, spherical silica with pore size varied from 30 to 200 Å was synthesized by pseudomorphic transformation at atmospheric pressure. 40–80 Å silica particles with a narrow pore distribution were obtained by using quaternary amine cationic surfactants and different kinds of swelling agents, including polypropylene glycol, 1,3,5‐trimethylbenzene, alkanes, and alkanols. Alkyl imidazolium ionic liquid surfactants were used to synthesize large pore size distribution silica spheres with pore sizes in the range of 110–200 Å. All these silica particles can be synthesized under mild conditions within 12 h, which provides a facile synthesis method for the preparation of a chromatographic matrix with tunable pore size. The method is reproducible and the relative standard deviation of silica sphere pore structure parameters in scaled‐up preparations is less than 6%. The pore size on the fraction of low‐molecular‐weight heparin (LMWH) was investigated in size exclusion chromatography. Matrixes with different pore size distributions have various size exclusion regions. By using UPS‐60‐Diol columns in a twin‐column recirculation separation process, LMWH with >85% heparin with molecular weight within the range of 3000–8000 Da were separated in five‐column volumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic pollution is a critical environmental issue due to the widespread use of plastic materials and their long degradation time. Hydrocracking (HDC) offers a promising solution to manage plastic waste by converting it into valuable products, namely chemicals or fuels. This work aims to investigates the effect of catalyst accessibility and acidity on the HDC reaction of high density polyethylene (HDPE). Therefore, a variety of materials with significant differences in both textural and acidic properties were tested as catalysts. These include H-USY and H-ZSM.5 zeolites with various Si/Al molar ratios (H-USY: Si/Al = 2.9, 15, 30 and 40; H-ZSM-5: Si/Al = 11.5, 40, 500) and mesostructured MCM-41 materials modified with Ga and Al, also with different Si/metal ratios (Si/Al = 16 and 30; Si/Ga = 63 and 82). Thermogravimetric analysis under hydrogen atmosphere was used as a preliminary screening tool to evaluate the potential of the various catalysts for this application in terms of energy requirements. In addition, batch autoclave reactor experiments (T = 300 °C, PH2 = 20 bar, t = 60 min) were conducted to obtain further information on conversion, product yields and product distribution for the most promising systems. The results show that the catalytic performance in HDPE hydrocracking is determined by a balance between the acidity of the catalyst and its structural accessibility. Accordingly, for catalyst series where the structural and textural properties do not vary with the Si/Al ratio, there is a clear correlation of the HDPE degradation temperature and of the HDPE conversion with the Si/metal ratio (which relates to the acidic properties). In contrast, for catalyst series where the structural and textural properties vary with the Si/Al ratio, no consistent trend is observed and the catalytic performance is determined by a balance between the acidic and textural properties. The product distribution was also found to be influenced by the physical and chemical properties of the catalyst. Catalysts with strong acidity and smaller pores were observed to favor the formation of lighter hydrocarbons. In addition to the textural and acidic properties of the catalyst, the role of coke formation should not be neglected to ensure a comprehensive analysis of the catalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intravitreal injection of biodegradable implant drug carriers shows promise in reducing the injection frequency for neovascular retinal diseases. However, current intravitreal ocular devices have limitations in adjusting drug release rates for individual patients, thereby affecting treatment effectiveness. Accordingly, we developed mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) featuring a surface that reverse its charge in response to reactive oxygen species (ROS) for efficient delivery of humanin peptide (HN) to retinal epithelial cells (ARPE-19). The MSN core, designed with a pore size of 2.8 nm, ensures a high HN loading capacity 64.4% (w /w). We fine-tuned the external surface of the MSNs by incorporating 20% Acetyl-L-arginine (Ar) to create a partial positive charge, while 80% conjugated thioketal (TK) methoxy polyethylene glycol (mPEG) act as ROS gatekeeper. Ex vivo experiments using bovine eyes revealed the immobilization of Ar-MSNs-TK-PEG (mean zeta potential: 2 mV) in the negatively charged vitreous. However, oxidative stress reversed the surface charge to −25 mV by mPEG loss, facilitating the diffusion of the nanoparticles impeded with HN. In vitro studies showed that ARPE-19 cells effectively internalize HN-loaded Ar-MSNs-TK, subsequently releasing the peptide, which offered protection against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis, as evidenced by reduced TUNEL and caspase3 activation. The inhibition of retinal neovascularization was further validated in an in vivo oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) mouse model. The study discusses the development of a novel drug delivery system utilizing charge reversal mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) for the treatment of neovascular retinal diseases. [Display omitted] • Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles' surface charge was delicately adjusted for reversal under ROS-response. • Intravitreal injection of Ar-MSNs-TK-PEG was immobilized in the mouse vitreous; however, under oxidative stress, the surface charge reversed, facilitating nanoparticle diffusion. • HN loaded Ar-MSNs-TK-PEG provides protection against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis, evidenced by reduced TUNEL and caspase3 activation. • Intravitreal injection of HN-loaded Ar-MSNs-TK-PEG inhibit retinal neovascularization in a mice model of oxygen-induced retinopathy without inducing toxicity in retinal tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous nanomedicines have been developed recently that can accumulate selectively in tumours due to the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. However, the high interstitial fluid pressure (IFP) in solid tumours limits the targeted delivery of nanomedicines. We were previously able to relieve intra-tumoural IFP by low-frequency non-focused ultrasound (LFNFU) through ultrasonic targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD), improving the targeted delivery of FITC-dextran. However, the accumulation of nanoparticles of different sizes and the optimal acoustic pressure were not evaluated. In this study, we synthesised Cy5.5-conjugated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Cy5.5-MSNs) of different sizes using a one-pot method. The Cy5.5-MSNs exhibited excellent stability and biosafety regardless of size. MCF7 tumour-bearing mice were subjected to UTMD over a range of acoustic pressures (0.5, 0.8, 1.5 and 2.0 MPa), and injected intravenously with Cy5.5-MSNs. Blood perfusion, tumour IFP and intra-tumoural accumulation of Cy5.5-MSNs were analysed. Blood perfusion and IFP initially rose, and then declined, as acoustic pressure intensified. Furthermore, UTMD significantly enhanced the accumulation of differentially sized Cy5.5-MSNs in tumour tissues compared to that of the control group, and the increase was sevenfold higher at an acoustic pressure of 1.5 MPa. Taken together, UTMD enhanced the infiltration and accumulation of Cy5.5-MSNs of different sizes in solid tumours by reducing intra-tumour IFP. The synthesis of Cy5.5-MSN and the effect of UTMD on its infiltration into tumours (produced using Figdraw, ). (A) The synthesis route of Cy5.5-MSN. (B, C) The impact of UTMD on the infiltration of Cy5.5-MSN into tumours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, KIT‐6@Schiff‐base@Ce nanocatalyst was synthesized by immobilizing the Ce complex on KIT‐6 mesoporous silica framework modified with 3‐iodopropyltrimethoxysilane group. The surface area, total volume, and average diameter of pores, physical properties, functional groups, organic content, and element combination of the obtained nanocatalyst were identified using different techniques including BET, FT‐IR, XRD, WDX, SEM, and EDX. The KIT‐6@Schiff‐base@Ce was investigated as a novel stable and reusable catalyst with excellent performance for the selective synthesizing of sulfoxide and tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyrans. The designed catalyst successfully oxidized a large number of sulfides using hydrogen peroxide under solvent‐free conditions or in ethanol as a safe, green, and available solvent with good efficiency within short reaction times. Also, KIT‐6@Schiff‐base@Ce catalyzed a number of tetrahydrobenzo[b]pyrans using multicomponent condensation of dimedone, aldehydes, and malononitrile in water/ethanol (1:1) as ideal, safe, green and available solvent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are physically and chemically stable inorganic nanomaterials that have been attracting much attention as carriers for drug delivery systems in the field of nanomedicine. In the present study, we investigated the potential of MSN vaccines that incorporate antigen peptides for use in cancer immunotherapy. In vitro experiments demonstrated that fluorescently labeled MSNs accumulated in a line of mouse dendritic cells (DC2.4 cells), where the particles localized to the cytosol. These observations could suggest that MSNs have potential for use in delivering the loaded molecules into antigen-presenting cells, thereby stimulating the host acquired immune system. In vivo experiments demonstrated prolonged survival in mice implanted with ovalbumin (OVA)-expressing lymphoma cells (E.G7-OVA cells) following subcutaneous inoculation with MSNs incorporating OVA antigen peptides. Furthermore, OVA-specific immunoglobulin G antibodies and cytotoxic T lymphocytes were detected in the serum and the spleen cells, respectively, of mice inoculated with an MSN-OVA vaccine, indicating the induction of antigen-specific responses in both the humoral and cellular immune systems. These results suggested that the MSN therapies incorporating antigen peptides may serve as novel vaccines for cancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] As an emerging fluorophore, aggregation-induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) have received widespread attention in recent years, but the inherent drawbacks of AIEgens, such as the poor water-solubility and insufficient fluorescence stability in complex environments, restrict their performance in practical applications. Herein, we report a universal strategy based on hydrophobic dendritic mesoporous silica (HMSN) that can integrate different AIE molecules to construct multi-color fluorescent AIE materials. Specifically, HMSN with central radial pores was used as a powerful carrier for direct loading AIE molecules and restricting their intramolecular motions. Due to the pore-domain restriction effect and hydrophobic interaction, the obtained silica-based AIE materials have bright fluorescence with a maximum quantum yield of 68.38%, high colloidal/fluorescence stability, and excellent biosafety. Further, these silica-based AIE materials can be conjugated with functional antibodies to obtain probes with different targetability. After integration with immunomagnetic beads, the prepared detection probes achieved the quantitative detection of cardiac troponin I with the limit of detection (LOD) of 0.508 ng/mL. Overall, the targeting probes stemming from silica-based AIE materials can not only achieve cell-specific imaging, but quantify the number of Jurkat cells (LOD = 270 cells/mL) to further determine the specific etiology of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the amphiphilic nature of phospholipids in the cell membrane, the amphipathicity of the nanomedicine plays a crucial role in the endocytosis. However, limited biological characterization methods restrict the study of the state of nanoparticles with different amphiphilicities on cell membranes. The understanding of interaction of amphiphilic particle with cell membrane is still lacking. Herein, by combining the dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) with the framework construction of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), we demonstrate the enhanced endocytosis induced by the hydrophobicity. DPD results confirm that the presence of hydrophobic groups on the surface of nanoparticles can disturb the integrity of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) membrane and induce activation of phospholipids to a higher energy level, thereby facilitating the wrapping of nanoparticles. To validate the simulation findings, uniform MSNs with hydrophilic pure silica framework and two types of amphiphilic MSNs with varying hydrophilic organic groups in the framework are rationally synthesized by using different silane precursors. The obtained three kinds of MSNs show similar diameter (~ 100 nm) and mesopores (~ 2 nm), but distinct hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity ratio. The phenyl-bridged MSN with a carbon content of 27.1% exhibits enhanced cellular uptake, consistent with the theoretical simulation results. This work sheds light on how the surface amphipathicity influences endocytosis through the interaction with cell membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are widely used in antimicrobial applications. However, its easy aggregation and rapid loss hinder the effective antifouling. To address this issue, a novel stimuli-responsive antibacterial nanocomposite (Ag@SP-MSN) was developed based on spiropyran covalently conjugated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (284.6 nm) and AgNPs (27.1 nm) via strong electrostatic attraction. Both transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) images proved the successful modification of AgNPs onto SP-MSN. The light-induced maximum loading amount towards AgNPs was calculated to be 95.0 wt.% after ultraviolet irradiation, while the amount of AgNPs released from Ag@SP-MSN was 94.4 wt.% under visible light in the aid of ammonia (0.1%, v/v). Upon cycled light irradiation, Ag@SP-MSN could recover 84.5 wt.% of AgNPs even after four cycles. The proposed Ag@SP-MSN exhibited better antibacterial activity against both E. coli and S. aureus than Ag@MSN under visible light illumination, indicating the efficient photo-responsive isomerization of spiropyran. Furthermore, the Ag@SP-MSN embedded gel demonstrated outstanding antifouling ability even after 21 days when compared to AgNPs gel. The long-term photo-controllable antifouling property proved the excellent reversible absorption and release of Ag@SP-MSN towards AgNPs. This work provides new insights into the safe utilization of nanomaterials, offering promising advancements to meet clinical antibacterial requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Chemotherapeutic drug delivery systems are commonly limited by their short half-lives, poor bioavailability, and unsuccessful targetability. Herein, pH-responsive hybrid NPs consist of benzimidazole-coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (BZ-MSN) loaded with naturally occurring flavonoid quercetin (QUE-BZ-MSN). The NPs were further capped with beta-cyclodextrin (BCD) to obtain our desired BCD-QUE-BZMSN, with a zeta potential around 7.05 ± 2.37 mV and diameter about 115.2 ± 19.02 nm. The abundance of BZ onto the nanoparticles facilitates targeted quercetin chemotherapy against model lung and liver cancer cell lines. FTIR, EDX, and NMR analyses revealed evidence of possible surface functionalizations. Powder XRD analysis showed that our designed BCD-QUE-BZMSN formulation is amorphous in nature. The UV and SEM showed that our designed BCD-QUE-BZMSN has high drug entrapment efficiency and a nearly spherical morphology. In vitro, drug release assessments show controlled pH-dependent release profiles that could enhance the targeted chemotherapeutic response against mildly acidic regions in cancer cell lines. The obtained BCD-QUE-BZMSN nanovalve achieved significantly higher cytotoxic efficacy as compared to QUE alone, which was evaluated by in vitro cellular uptake against liver and lung cancer cell lines, and the cellular morphological ablation was further confirmed via inverted microscopy. The outcomes of the study imply that our designed BCD-QUE-BZMSN nanovalve is a potential carrier for cancer chemotherapeutics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Mesoporous‐nanostructured silica‐Prussian blue composite is a highly potential material for silver ions removal and recovery from wastewater. Intense interest has been shown in the use of Prussian blue (PB), one of the important coordinated materials and its analogues in removal of toxic and valuable ions. METHODS: The micro‐emulsion template method enables the synthesis of Prussian blue (PB) within silica pores, yielding a nanostructured mesoporous silica‐PB composite. This rapid synthesis technique allows for the direct fabrication of the composite from mixed precursor solutions within minutes. The resulting material is effective for selectively extracting silver ions from wastewater at a specific pH level. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: In summary, the synthesized SiO2‐Prussian blue composite was extensively analyzed using various techniques including XPS, HR‐TEM, SEM, STEM‐EDX elemental maps, TGA/TDA, and N2 adsorption/desorption measurements. The composite exhibited a BET surface area of 203 m2 g−1 and a total pore volume of approximately 0.283 cm3 g−1with mesopores centered around 20 nm. This mesoporous SiO2‐Prussian blue demonstrated significant effectiveness in removing silver ions, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 107.5 mg g−1. The Langmuir and Sips isotherms showed the best fit among various adsorption isotherm types, with R2 values exceeding 0.984. Additionally, kinetic analyses revealed that the pseudo‐second‐order model accurately described the adsorption of silver ions onto the synthesized adsorbent. The nano‐particles exhibit remarkable long‐term stability, maintaining good reproducibility even after five regeneration cycles. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Due to their excellent properties, blue CsPbBr3 quantum dots show great promise for full-colour display and lighting applications. This study used acetonitrile, a polar solvent, to post-treat CsPbBr3 quantum dots, resulting in a blue shift to 453 nm. To enhance stability, these quantum dots were encapsulated within the pore structure of mesoporous silica. A flexible luminescent fiber material was prepared using poly (lactic acid) (PLA) as the substrate, demonstrating improved hydrophobicity and stable optical properties. The material exhibited a contact angle of 99.7° and maintained 82.2% of its fluorescence intensity after 30 days at room temperature. These findings highlight its significant potential for optical applications.

Abstract Background The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of adding mesoporous silica with silver nanoparticles to conventional glass ionomer cements (GIC) on its, physical, chemical, mechanical properties and ion release analysis. Methods Synthesized mesoporous silica with silver nanoparticles were added in 1, 3 and 5% by weight to the liquid component of GIC forming three experimental groups and compared with plain GIC as control group. Physical and chemical characterization were conducted using nano-computerized tomography (NanoCT) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Surface microhardness, water sorption and solubility were analyzed. Ion release was investigated using Inductive Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy and High Performance Liquid Chromatography. Statistical analysis between different groups for the set parameters using parametric and non-parametric tests. The results were analysed using one way analysis of variance (p

Oral drug administration remains one of the most convenient routes due to its Simplicity, high patient compliance, and cost-effectiveness. However, many medicinal products available on the market exhibit poor water solubility, which adversely affects the dissolution rate of drugs in biological fluids. Drug loading is a promising strategy to produce highly stable amorphous drugs with improved dissolution rates, solubility, and bioavailability. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are particularly advantageous due to their tunable surface area, pore size, and pore volume, making them suitable to load various molecules such as drugs, genes, and proteins. The use of mathematical models is crucial for predicting and analyzing the release profile of active molecules and diffusion patterns within delivery systems. This enables the design and development of new systems with more desirable release patterns. This review provides an overview of MSNs and drug loading methods, discusses the mechanisms of drug release and release kinetic models using mesoporous carriers, and highlights critical considerations in designing MSNs, such as particle stability and cytotoxicity.

Abstract Background Bufalin (BA) is a potent traditional Chinese medicine derived from toad venom. It has shown significant antitumor activity, but its use is limited by cardiotoxicity, which necessitates innovative delivery methods, such as rod-shaped mesoporous silica nanoparticles (rMSNs). rMSNs have been extensively employed for reducing drug toxicity and for controlled or targeted drug delivery in tumor therapy. However, their potential in delivering BA has not been completely elucidated. Therefore, in this study, BA-loaded rMSNs (BA-rMSNs) were developed to investigate their potential and mechanism in impairing colon cancer cells. Methods rMSNs were developed via the sol‒gel method. Drug encapsulation efficiency and loading capacity were determined to investigate the advantages of the rMSN in loading BA. The antiproliferative activities of the BA-rMSNs were investigated via 5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine and CCK-8. To evaluate cell death, Annexin V-APC/PI apoptotic and calcein-AM/PI double staining were performed. Western blotting, oil red O staining, and Nile red solution were employed to determine the ability of BA-rMSNs to regulate lipophagy. Results The diameter of the BA-rMSNs was approximately 60 nm. In vitro studies demonstrated that BA-rMSNs markedly inhibited HCT 116 and HT-29 cell proliferation and induced cell death. In vivo studies revealed that BA-rMSNs reduced BA-mediated cardiotoxicity and enhanced BA tumor targeting. Mechanistic studies revealed that BA-rMSNs blocked lipophagy. Conclusions rMSNs reduced BA-mediated cardiotoxicity and impaired the growth of colon cancer cells. Mechanistically, antitumor activity depends on lipophagy.

[Display omitted] • Ti and Fe-doped mesoporous silica were synthesized using inverse-micelle sol–gel technique. • High dispersion of Ti and Fe in SiO 2 improved catalyst's surface area and pore volume. • Ti-MS achieved 93% styrene conversion and 91% benzaldehyde selectivity. • Selective styrene oxidation performance can be related to catalyst's acidity. • Catalysts were reusable for up to 4 cycles without loss of activity. An inverse-micelle sol–gel method was used to prepare Ti and Fe-doped mesoporous silica catalysts, and they were utilized for selective oxidation of styrene to benzaldehyde. The amorphous peak of silica was confirmed by XRD and there were no peaks related to Ti or Fe oxides. Results indicate that the metals were homogeneously distributed in the silica matrix, leading to higher surface area and pore volume. Introduction of Ti species into mesoporous silica improved the total catalyst acidity and catalytic data revealed that the oxidation activity of Ti-doped mesoporous silica (Ti-MS) catalyst achieved 93% styrene conversion and 91% benzaldehyde selectivity under optimized conditions. Formic acid, phenylacetaldehyde, acetophenone and epoxy-styrene are all minor products of this reaction. The acid strength and the use of appropriate solvents and oxidants are crucial to achieving high styrene conversion and benzaldehyde yield. The catalysts were reusable up to 4 cycles without loss of activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We propose a strategy utilizing magnetic nanoparticle collectives to enhance drug targeted delivery and penetration for potentiated ovarian cancer chemotherapy. The designed magnetic pH-responsive nanoparticle collectives could active deliver chemotherapeutics to the tumor site, and enhance drug penetration into deep tumors by the torque-force hybrid magnetic field, offering potentially clinically feasible strategy for enhancing tumor chemotherapy. [Display omitted] Chemotherapy is the main clinical treatment for ovarian cancer, but still faces challenges of low drug targeting efficiency and insufficient drug permeability. Drug-loaded nanoparticle collectives, which are actuated by magnetic field, could be targeted to a designated location and achieve targeted drug delivery. In this work, we report a strategy that utilizes magnetic mesoporous silica nanoparticles loaded with cis -diaminodichloroplatinum (Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 -CDDP) for targeted delivery of chemotherapeutic drugs and enhances penetration into deep tumors. The Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 -CDDP collectives actively moved to the target tumor site, and this movement was regulated by a magnetic actuation system. Under the action of a torque-force hybrid magnetic field (TFMF), Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 -CDDP could further penetrate into the interior of tumors and achieve pH-responsive drug release in the tumor environment. The feasibility of this strategy was verified in three-dimensional cell spheres in vitro and in a tumor-bearing mouse model in vivo. This magnetically actuated nanoparticle collectives enhanced drug penetration strategy provides a new paradigm for targeted drug delivery and potentiated tumor therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Premature drug release in chemotherapy and hypoxic conditions in photodynamic therapy (PDT) are perplexing problems in tumor treatment. Thus, it is of great significance to develop the novel therapeutic system with controllable drug release and effective oxygen generation. Herein, a pH-responsive oxygen self-sufficient smart nanoplatform (named DHCCC), integrating hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSNs), chitosan (CS), doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX), chlorin e6 (Ce6) and catalase (CAT), is fabricated to enhance the tumor therapeutic efficacy efficiently through avoiding premature drug release and mitigating hypoxia of tumor microenvironment (TME). The drug DOX can be efficiently loaded into the HMSNs with large cavity and be controllable released because of the pH responsiveness of CS to the weak acidic TME, thereby elevating the chemotherapy efficacy. Meanwhile, CAT can catalyze the decomposition of endogenous hydrogen peroxide in situ generating oxygen to alleviate the hypoxia and enhance the PDT efficiency considerably. In vitro and in vivo results demonstrate that the combined chemo-photodynamic therapy based on the DHCCC nanoplatform exerts more effective antitumor efficacy than chemotherapy or PDT alone. The current study provides a promising inspiration to construct the pH-responsive oxygen self-sufficient smart nanomedicine with potentials to prevent premature drug leakage and overcome hypoxia for efficient tumor therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Poplar in China has long been plagued by the fall webworm Hyphantria cunea. Enhancing plant immunity using chemical elicitors is an environmentally friendly approach to pest control. The phytohormone methyl jasmonate (MeJA) can stimulate the chemical defenses of poplars against herbivores but has been shown to have limited efficacy in practice. Here, we studied the effects of a MeJA and mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSN) complex (MeJA@MSN) regarding the induction of poplar resistance to H. cunea, which may provide strategies for the effective use of MeJA. RESULTS: The silicon‐based phytohormone complex (MeJA@MSNs) exhibited excellent biological and physiochemical properties, such as excellent biocompatibility and plant tissue transportability. The changes in metabolites in poplar leaves induced by MeJA, MSNs, and MeJA@MSNs were investigated by metabolic analysis. MeJA@MSNs led to highly potent induced resistance along with elevated salicylaldehyde content, which increased with the dose administered. The salicylaldehyde metabolite showed a strong antifeedant effect on H. cunea larvae at a dosage of 1 μg, with the 50% lethal dose being 20.4 μg/mg. Furthermore, transcriptional analysis showed that MeJA@MSNs upregulated key genes in biosynthetic pathways more than MeJA and MSNs. CONCLUSION: Our results show that MeJA and MSNs interact positively in poplar, leading to salicylaldehyde accumulation and increased induced resistance to H. cunea, providing new insights into the underlying resistance mechanisms induced by MeJA@MSNs. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using an OpenMP Application Programming Interface, the resolution-of-the-identity second-order Møller–Plesset perturbation (RI-MP2) method has been off-loaded onto graphical processing units (GPUs), both as a standalone method in the GAMESS electronic structure program and as an electron correlation energy component in the effective fragment molecular orbital (EFMO) framework. First, a new scheme has been proposed to maximize data digestion on GPUs that subsequently linearizes data transfer from central processing units (CPUs) to GPUs. Second, the GAMESS Fortran code has been interfaced with GPU numerical libraries (e.g., NVIDIA cuBLAS and cuSOLVER) for efficient matrix operations (e.g., matrix multiplication, matrix decomposition, and matrix inversion). The standalone GPU RI-MP2 code shows an increasing speedup of up to 7.5× using one NVIDIA V100 GPU with one IBM 42-core P9 CPU for calculations on fullerenes of increasing size from 40 to 260 carbon atoms using the 6-31G(d)/cc-pVDZ-RI basis sets. A single Summit node with six V100s can compute the RI-MP2 correlation energy of a cluster of 175 water molecules using the correlation consistent basis sets cc-pVDZ/cc-pVDZ-RI containing 4375 atomic orbitals and 14 700 auxiliary basis functions in ∼0.85 h. In the EFMO framework, the GPU RI-MP2 component shows near linear scaling for a large number of V100s when computing the energy of an 1800-atom mesoporous silica nanoparticle in a bath of 4000 water molecules. The parallel efficiencies of the GPU RI-MP2 component with 2304 and 4608 V100s are 98.0% and 96.1%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Diabetic nephropathy leads to end-stage renal disease. The present study aimed to evaluate the prophylactic effect of pioglitazone-loaded mesoporous silica and alumina scaffold on renal function and the underlying mechanisms in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Experimental approach: The mesoporous nanoparticles were synthesized by chemical methods from tetraethylorthosilicate and aluminum isopropoxide and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The soaking method was applied to load pioglitazone into the mesoporous silica and alumina. Subsequently, the most capable formulation was evaluated for lipid profile, blood glucose, renal function biomarkers, malondialdehyde, and kidney histopathological changes in diabetic rats. Findings/Results: Pioglitazone loaded in the mesoporous included a superior release of about 80%. No interaction was observed in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction was shown crystalline. Scanning electron microscopy showed the size of the nanometer in the range of 100 - 300 nm. Mesoporous silica containing the drug significantly decreased urinary parameters, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein, blood urea nitrogen, blood glucose, malondialdehyde, and creatinine. In addition, it showed increased high-density lipoprotein, significantly. The renal histopathological changes indicated improvement compared with the untreated diabetic group. Conclusion and implications: It was concluded that the mesoporous was potent to serve as a promising drug carrier and a platform aimed at the delivery of poorly water-soluble drugs for improving oral bioavailability. Furthermore, it has the potential to provide a beneficial effect on the changes in diabetic parameters.