Core–Shell Upconversion Nanoparticle@Metal–Organic Framework Nanoprobes for Targeting and Drug Delivery.

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are permanently microporous materials. MOFs have become promising candidates as drug delivery hosts because of high specific surface area. In this work, we control preparation of a new core–shell microsphere NaYF4:Yb,Er@NaYF4:Nd@MIL-53 by layer-by-layer self-assembly method. Here upconverting fluorescent nanoparticles (UCNPs) NaYF4:Yb,Er@NaYF4:Nd has potential for bioimaging due to excellent NIR optical property. MIL-53 as a drug carrier for DOX delivery. Folic acid as targeting agent is encapsulated into the above core-shell structured to form new nanocomposite (UCNPs@ MIL-53/FA). We have found that the new core–shell nanocomposites are nontoxic toward human cervix adenocarcinoma (HeLa) and can simultaneously achieve targeted therapy and drug delivery are used for the treatment of cancer. This result is expected to provide new ideas and perspectives for the treatment of cancer of the tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]