CO2-Assisted Controllable Synthesis of PdNi Nanoalloys for Highly Selective Hydrogenation of Biomass-Derived 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural

The selective hydrogenation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5-bishydroxymethyltetrahydrofuran (BHMTHF), a vital fuel precursor and solvent, is crucial for biomass refining. Herein, we report highly selective and stable PdNi nanoalloy catalysts for this deep hydrogenation process. A CO2-assisted green method was developed for the controllable synthesis of various bimetallic and monometallic catalysts. The PdNi/SBA-15 catalysts with various Pd/Ni ratios exhibited a volcano-like trend between BHMTHF yield and Pd/Ni ratio. Among all catalysts tested, Pd2Ni1/SBA-15 achieved the best performance, converting 99.0 % of HMF to BHMTHF with 96.0 % selectivity, surpassing previously reported catalysts. Additionally, the Pd2Ni1/SBA-15 catalyst maintained excellent stability even after five recycling runs. Catalyst characterizations (e. g., HAADF-STEM) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations confirmed the successful formation of the alloy structure with electron transfer between Ni and Pd, which accounts for the remarkable performance and stability of the catalyst. This work paves the way for developing highly selective and stable alloy catalysts for biomass valorization.

Macrocycle-based self-assembled amphiphiles for co-delivery of therapeutic combinations to tumor

For tumor treatment, the efficiency of single chemotherapeutic agent is generally limited and the traditional combination chemotherapies frequently result in the aggravation of side effects. Herein, an amphiphilic pillararene-based self-assembled nanoparticle (APSN) composed of hydrazide-pillar[5]arene (HP5A-6C) that achieve effective co-delivery of therapeutic combinations was reported. Through integrating multitudinous macrocyclic cavities into a single nanoparticle, the APSN could co-load two antitumor drugs, cisplatin (CP) and nitrogen mustard (NM) via host-guest interactions. A serious of safety tests preliminary demonstrated that blank carrier APSN had good biocompatibility. Cytotoxicity assay verified that co-delivery system CP+NM@APSN could exert a synergistic antitumor effect at the cellular level. In vivo studies demonstrated that CP+NM@APSN could not only improve chemotherapeutic outcomes in tumor-bearing model mouse but also alleviate two medications-related side effects. These favorable findings were attributed to the formation of ternary supramolecular assembly that benefited from an enhanced permeability and retention effect. © 2024 Elsevier Science. All rights reserved.

pH-responsive supramolecular switch of a rationally designed dipyrroethene-based chromophore

Herein, we present a strategy to access a novel class of pH-responsive, dual-state emissive (DSE), highly fluorescent pyrrole-based chromophores via diformylation of dipyrroethenes (DPE) followed by condensation with various aniline derivatives. The DPE-based chromophores exhibit a large Stokes shift and maintain good fluorescence quantum yields. Remarkably, these chromophores demonstrate reversible colourimetric changes and a fluorometric 'on-off-on' switch in response to pH variations. Various spectroscopic techniques, optical microscopy, X-ray crystallography, and computational studies revealed that the synthesized molecules adopt a two-dimensional conformation due to the presence of strong π⋯π stacking and hydrogen bonding interactions, allowing them to function as flexible molecular hosts. Under acidic conditions, selective protonation of imine bonds and subsequent complexation with the counter anion enhance the host-guest interactions, resulting in a stable three-dimensional supramolecular structure. Notably, the reversibility of these molecules under basic conditions showcases the robustness and potential applications of these chromophores in various fields, ranging from the design of finely tuned pH-responsive degradable polymers to self-healing materials, as well as sensing and molecular devices.

Mediated self-assembled gold nanoclusters with mesoporous silica particles to boost fluorescence for enhanced on-site monitoring of organophosphate pesticides

Accurate detection of organophosphate pesticides (OPs) is paramount for ensuring food safety. Dendritic mesoporous silica sphere was employed to confine gold nanoclusters (AuNCs@dmSiO2) to ameliorate fluorescent property of AuNCs. A AuNCs@dmSiO2-based fluorescent method was developed for OPs sensing. Identification of Cu2+ by AuNCs quenched AuNCs@dmSiO2 fluorescence. Interaction between Cu2+ and generated thiocholine in catalysis of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) caused fluorescence enhancement. OPs, an inhibitor of AChE, suppressed thiocholine production to cause fluorescence quenching. Based on fluorescent variation, a fluorescent method was proposed for OPs by selecting paraoxon as a model within range of 0.05-25.0 ng/mL with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.032 ng/mL. Besides, a portable test swab was prepared for on-site monitoring OP paraoxon with a smartphone-based 3D-printing portable device with a LOD of 0.65 ng/mL. This work is highlighted by the inspiration of designing highly fluorescent AuNCs, and the provision of a viable avenue for OPs-related food analysis.

Stimuli-Responsive Molecular Duplexes Displaying Duplex-to-Duplex Switching

Synthetic duplexes with high stabilities have promising potential for mimicking biomolecular functions and developing supramolecular smart materials. Herein, we describe the synthesis and stimuli-responsive properties of molecular duplexes derived from indolocarbazole-pyridine (I-P) oligomers. These duplexes adopt nonclassical helical structures, stabilized by I-P hydrogen-bonding pairs in anhydrous chlorinated solvents. Notably, the longest duplex 62 (11-mer)2 displays remarkable stability, forming twenty hydrogen bonds; its exchange energy barrier was determined to be ΔG≠=22.0 kcal ⋅ mol-1 at 75 °C in anhydrous (CDCl2)2. Upon the addition of water, a hydrated duplex 62 (11-mer)2⊃10H2O was formed, with one water molecule inserted between each I-P hydrogen-bonding pair. The Hill coefficient (n) for this process is 6.1, demonstrating extremely positive cooperativity. Conversely, the hydrated duplex 62 (11-mer)2⊃10H2O was completely converted into the original anhydrous duplex 62 (11-mer)2 when the temperature was increased. Interconversion between these two distinct duplexes can be repeatedly carried out by varying the temperature. Furthermore, reversible switching between hetero-duplexes and homo-duplexes was also demonstrated by controlling the temperature, with concomitant changes in the characteristic emission signals.

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.

Development of a Supermolecular Radionuclide-Drug Conjugate System for Integrated Radiotheranostics for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Radionuclide-drug conjugates (RDCs) designed from small molecule or nanoplatform shows complementary characteristics. We constructed a new RDC system with integrated merits of small molecule and nanoplatform-based RDCs. Erlotinib was labeled with 131I to construct the bulk of RDC (131I-ER). Floxuridine was mixed with 131I-ER to develop a hydrogen bond-driving supermolecular RDC system (131I-ER-Fu NPs). The carrier-free 131I-ER-Fu NPs supermolecule not only demonstrated integrated merits of small molecule and nanoplatform-based RDC, including clear structure definition, stable quality control, prolonged circulation lifetime, enhanced tumor specificity and retention, and rapidly nontarget clearance, but also exhibited low biological toxicity and stronger antitumor effects. In vivo imaging also revealed its application for tumor localization of nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and screening of patients suitable for epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) therapy. We considered that 131I-ER-Fu NPs showed potentials as an integrated platform for the radiotheranostics of NSCLC.

Cucurbit[8]uril-based supramolecular theranostics

Different from most of the conventional platforms with dissatisfactory theranostic capabilities, supramolecular nanotheranostic systems have unparalleled advantages via the artful combination of supramolecular chemistry and nanotechnology. Benefiting from the tunable stimuli-responsiveness and compatible hierarchical organization, host-guest interactions have developed into the most popular mainstay for constructing supramolecular nanoplatforms. Characterized by the strong and diverse complexation property, cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) shows great potential as important building blocks for supramolecular theranostic systems. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of CB[8]-based supramolecular theranostics regarding the design, manufacture and theranostic mechanism. Meanwhile, the current limitations and corresponding reasonable solutions as well as the potential future development are also discussed.

Composite Microparticles from Microfluidics for Chemo-/Photothermal Therapy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hydrogel microcarrier-based drug delivery systems are of great value in the combination therapy of tumors. Current research directions concentrate on the development of more economic, convenient, and effective combined therapeutic platforms. Herein, we developed novel adhesive composite microparticles (MPPMD) with combined chemo- and photothermal therapy ability via microfluidic electrospray technology for local hepatocellular carcinoma treatment. These composite microparticles consisted of doxorubicin (DOX)-loaded and polydopamine-wrapped mesoporous silicon and alginate. Benefiting from such a strategy of hierarchical structure drug loading, DOX could be gradually released from the system, effectively avoiding the direct toxicity of chemotherapeutics to the body. Additionally, the designed microparticles could not only effectively treat tumors by releasing the chemotherapy drug DOX but also show excellent photothermal properties under the irradiation of near-infrared light, achieving combined chemo- and photothermal treatment effects. Based on these advantages, the MPPMD could remarkably eliminate tumor cells in vitro and enormously restrict tumor development in vivo. These results illustrate that such composite microparticles are ideal combination treatment platforms, possessing promising expectations for cancer therapy.

Pillararene-Based Stimuli-Responsive Supramolecular Delivery Systems for Cancer Therapy

Cancer poses a significant challenge to global public health, seriously threatening human health and life. Although various therapeutic strategies, such as chemotherapy (CT), radiotherapy, phototherapy, and starvation therapy, are applied to cancer treatment, their limited therapeutic effect, severe side effects, and unsatisfactory drug release behavior need to be carefully considered. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop efficient drug delivery strategies for improving cancer treatment efficacy and realizing on-demand drug delivery. Notably, pillararenes, as an emerging class of supramolecular macrocycles, possess unique properties of highly tunable structures, superior host-guest chemistry, facile modification, and good biocompatibility, which are widely used in cancer therapy to achieve controllable drug release and reduce the toxic side effects on normal tissues under various internal/external stimuli conditions. This review summarizes the recent advance of stimuli-responsive supramolecular delivery systems (SDSs) based on pillararenes for tumor therapy from the perspectives of different assembly methods and hybrid materials, including molecular-scale SDSs, supramolecular nano self-assembly delivery systems, and nanohybrid SDSs. Moreover, the prospects and critical challenges of stimuli-responsive SDSs based on pillararenes for cancer therapy are also discussed.

Dual pH- and temperature-responsive poly(dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate)-coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles as a smart drug delivery system

A robust drug delivery system was created by grafting poly(dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) onto silica nanoparticles with two different lengths using an in situ atom transfer radical polymerization, resulting in the formation of a pH- and temperature-sensitive shell. The high molecular weight PDMAEMA demonstrated effective controlled drug release, and prevented drug release in healthy cells. Drug release occurred through polymer shell protonation at pH 5. The critical temperature of 41 °C facilitated rapid solvation of the shell polymers in the blood, preventing tissue accumulation and reducing toxicity compared to systems with lower critical solution temperatures. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy analysis and nitrogen adsorption/desorption analysis showed that the nanoparticles have a fine network, mesoporous structure, and a mean size of around 17 nm that show their excellent capacity for loading drugs. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy showed that all the modification steps and polymerization were successfully implemented. Thermogravimetric analysis showed PDMAEMA chains with two different lengths grafted onto the nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy analysis also showed grafted polymer chains on the hybrid nanoparticles. The release profile of model cancer drugs (doxorubicin and methotrexate) varied with pH and temperature, with high molecular weight PDMAEMA shells effectively preventing drug release at neutral pH. In vitro analysis using the HeLa cell line showed minimal toxicity in blank samples and significant release profile in acidic environment.

Smart organic materials based on macrocycle hosts

Innovative design of smart organic materials is of great importance for the advancement of modern technology. Macrocycle hosts, possessing cyclic skeletons, intrinsic cavities, and specific guest binding properties, have demonstrated pronounced potential for the elaborate fabrication of a variety of functional organic materials with smart stimuli-responsive characteristics. In this tutorial review, we outline the current development of smart organic materials based on macrocycle hosts as key building blocks, focusing on the design principles and functional mechanisms of the tailored systems. Three main types of macrocycle-based smart organic materials are exemplified as follows according to the distinct forms of construction patterns: (1) supramolecular polymeric materials and nanoassemblies; (2) adaptive molecular crystals; (3) smart porous organic materials. The responsive performances of macrocycle-containing smart materials in versatile aspects, including mechanically adaptive polymers, soft optoelectronic devices, data encryption, drug delivery systems, artificial transmembrane channels, crystalline-state gas adsorption/separation, and fluorescence sensing, are illustrated by discussing the representative studies as paradigms, where the roles of macrocycles in these systems are highlighted. We also provide in the conclusion part the perspectives and remaining challenges in this burgeoning field.

"Reaction"-Like Shaping of Self-Delivery Supramolecular Nanodrugs in the Nanoprecipitation Process

Nanoprecipitation, which is achieved through the diffusion and precipitation of drug molecules in blended solvent and antisolvent phases, is a classic route for constructing nanodrugs (NDs) and previously directed by diffusion-controlled theory. However, the diffusion-controlled mechanism is out of date in the recent preparation of self-delivery supramolecular NDs (SDSNDs), characterized by the construction of drug nanoparticles through supramolecular interactions in the absence of carriers and surfactants. Herein, a "reaction"-like complement, contributed from supramolecular interactions, is proposed for the preparation of naphthoquinone SDSNDs. Different from the diffusion-controlled process, the formation rate of SDSNDs via the "reaction"-like process is almost constant and highly dependent on the supramolecular interaction-determined Gibbs free energy of molecular binding. Thus, the formation rate and drug availability of SDSNDs are greatly improved by engineering the supramolecular interactions, which facilitates the preparation of SDSNDs with expected sizes, components, and therapeutic functions. As a deep understanding of supramolecular-interaction-involved nanoprecipitation, the current "reaction"-like protocol not only provides a theoretical supplement for classic nanoprecipitation but also highlights the potential of nanoprecipitation in shaping self-assembled, coassembled, and metal-ion-associated SDSNDs.

Cyclodextrin: A prospective nanocarrier for the delivery of antibacterial agents against bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics

Supramolecular chemistry introduces us to the macrocyclic host cyclodextrin, which has a hydrophobic cavity. The hydrophobic cavity has a higher affinity for hydrophobic guest molecules and forms host-guest complexation with non-covalent interaction. Three significant cyclodextrin kinds are α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, and γ-cyclodextrin. The most often utilized is β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). An effective weapon against bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics is cyclodextrin. Several different kinds of cyclodextrin nanocarriers (β-CD, HP-β-CD, Meth-β-CD, cationic CD, sugar-grafted CD) are utilized to enhance the solubility, stability, dissolution, absorption, bioavailability, and permeability of the antibiotics. Cyclodextrin also improves the effectiveness of antibiotics, antimicrobial peptides, metallic nanoparticles, and photodynamic therapy (PDT). Again, cyclodextrin nanocarriers offer slow-release properties for sustained-release formulations where steady-state plasma antibiotic concentration is needed for an extended time. A novel strategy to combat bacterial resistance is a stimulus (pH, ROS)-responsive antibiotics released from cyclodextrin carrier. Once again, cyclodextrin traps autoinducer (AI), a crucial part of bacterial quorum sensing, and reduces virulence factors, including biofilm formation. Cyclodextrin helps to minimize MIC in particular bacterial strains, keep antibiotic concentrations above MIC in the infection site and minimize the possibility of antibiotic and biofilm resistance. Sessile bacteria trapped in biofilms are more resistant to antibiotic therapy than bacteria in a planktonic form. Cyclodextrin also involves delivering antibiotics to biofilm and resistant bacteria to combat bacterial resistance.

Recent Advances in the Support Layer, Interlayer and Active Layer of TFC and TFN Organic Solvent Nanofiltration (OSN) Membranes: A Review

Although separation of solutes from organic solutions is considered a challenging process, it is inevitable in various chemical, petrochemical and pharmaceutical industries. OSN membranes are the heart of OSN technology that are widely utilized to separate various solutes and contaminants from organic solvents, which is now considered an emerging field. Hence, numerous studies have been attracted to this field to manufacture novel membranes with outstanding properties. Thin-film composite (TFC) and nanocomposite (TFN) membranes are two different classes of membranes that have been recently utilized for this purpose. TFC and TFN membranes are made up of similar layers, and the difference is the use of various nanoparticles in TFN membranes, which are classified into two types of porous and nonporous ones, for enhancing the permeate flux. This study aims to review recent advances in TFC and TFN membranes fabricated for organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN) applications. Here, we will first study the materials used to fabricate the support layer, not only the membranes which are not stable in organic solvents and require to be cross-linked, but also those which are inherently stable in harsh media and do not need any cross-linking step, and all of their advantages and disadvantages. Then, we will study the effects of fabricating different interlayers on the performance of the membranes, and the mechanisms of introducing an interlayer in the regulation of the PA structure. At the final step, we will study the type of monomers utilized for the fabrication of the active layer, the effect of surfactants in reducing the tension between the monomers and the membrane surface, and the type of nanoparticles used in the active layer of TFN membranes and their effects in enhancing the membrane separation performance.

Pillararene incorporated metal-organic frameworks for supramolecular recognition and selective separation

Crystalline frameworks containing incorporated flexible macrocycle units can afford new opportunities in molecular recognition and selective separation. However, such functionalized frameworks are difficult to prepare and challenging to characterize due to the flexible nature of macrocycles, which limits the development of macrocycle-based crystalline frameworks. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a set of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) containing pillar[5]arene units. The pillar[5]arene units were uniformly embedded in the periodic frameworks. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis revealed an interpenetrated network that appears to hinder the rotation of the pillar[5]arene repeating units in the frameworks, and it therefore resulted in the successful determination of the precise pillar[5]arene host structure in a MOF crystal. These MOFs can recognize paraquat and 1,2,4,5-tetracyanobenzene in solution and selectively remove trace pyridine from toluene with relative ease. The work presented here represents a critical step towards the synthesis of macrocycle-incorporated crystalline frameworks with well-defined structures and functional utility.

Aryl- and Superaryl-Extended Calix[4]pyrroles: From Syntheses to Potential Applications

The incorporation of aryl substituents at the meso-positions of calix[4]pyrrole (C4P) scaffolds produces aryl-extended (AE) and super-aryl-extended (SAE) calix[4]pyrroles. The cone conformation of the all-α isomers of "multi-wall" AE-C4Ps and SAE-C4Ps displays deep aromatic clefts or cavities. In particular, "four-wall" receptors feature an aromatic polar cavity closed at one end with four convergent pyrrole rings and fully open at the opposite end. This makes AE- and SAE-C4P scaffolds effective receptors for the molecular recognition of negatively charged ions and neutral guest molecules with donor-acceptor and hydrogen bonding motifs. In addition, adequately functionalized all-α isomers of multi wall AE- and SAE-C4P scaffolds self-assemble into uni-molecular and supra-molecular aggregates displaying capsular and cage-like structures. The self-assembly process requires the presence of template ions or molecules that lock the C4P cone conformation and complementing the inner polar functions and volumes of their cavities. We envisioned performing an in-depth revision of AE- and SAE-C4P scaffolds owing to their importance in different domains such as supramolecular chemistry, biology, material sciences and pharmaceutical chemistry. Herewith, besides the synthetic details on the elaboration of their structures, we also draw attention to their diverse applications. The organization of this review is mainly based on the number of "walls" present in the AE-C4P derivatives and their structural modifications. The sections are further divided based on the C4P functions and applications. The authors are convinced that this review will be of interest to researchers working in the general area of supramolecular chemistry as well as those involved in the study of the binding properties and applications of C4P derivatives.

Exploiting recent trends for the synthesis and surface functionalization of mesoporous silica nanoparticles towards biomedical applications

Rapid progress in developing multifunctional nanocarriers for drug delivery has been observed in recent years. Inorganic mesoporous silica nanocarriers (MSNs), emerged as an ideal candidate for gene/drug delivery with distinctive morphological features. These ordered carriers of porous nature have gained unique attention due to their distinctive features. Moreover, transformation can be made to these nanocarriers in terms of pores size, pores volume, and particle size by altering specific parameters during synthesis. These ordered porous materials have earned special attention as a drug carrier for treating multiple diseases. Herein, we highlight the strategies employed in synthesizing and functionalizing these versatile nanocarriers. In addition, the various factors that influence their sizes and morphological features were also discussed. The article also summarizes the recent advancements and strategies for drug and gene delivery by rendering smarter MSNs by incorporating functional groups on their surfaces. Averting off-target effects through various capping strategies is a massive milestone for the induction of stimuli-responsive nanocarriers that brings out a great revolution in the biomedical field.

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MSNs serve as an ideal candidate for gene/drug delivery with unique and excellent attributes.

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MSNs surface can be functionalized using specific materials to impart unique structural features.

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Functionalization of MSNs with stimuli-responsive molecules can act as gatekeepers by responding to the desired stimulus after uncapping.

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These capping agents act as vital targeting agents in developing MSNs being employed in various biomedical applications.

Kinetic and isotherms modeling of methyl orange and chromium (VI) onto hexagonal ZnO microstructures as a membrane for environmental remediation of wastewater

Globally, contamination of water by dyes and heavy metals (HMs) is a serious environmental and public health problem due to their carcinogenic and mutagenic nature. It is incumbent to treat innocuously before discharge. It is the first time, hexagonal zinc oxide (ZnO) microstructure are being employeed as a membrane in the simultaneous removal of methyl orange (MO) and chromium (Cr (VI)) from the aqueous solution. The surface chemistry of hexagonal ZnO was characterized for morphology, surface functional groups, crystalline nature, and elemental composition by scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Adsorption capacity and removal efficiency was determined by the laboratory batch adsorption experiments, while nonlinear, linear kinetics and isotherm models were fitted to experimental data to investigate the adsorption process. The results exhibited that the maximum adsorption capacity (q_max) of hexagonal ZnO from the Langmuir isotherm model was 80.39 mg g^-1 and 84.10 mg g^-1 for MO and Cr (VI) respectively. According to the modeling findings, linear langmuir fitted to the experimental data with R² 0.967 and 0.971 for both MO and Cr (VI) which indicates monolayer physical adsorption of both pollutants has taken place. Whereas, kinetic study showed nonlinear pseudo-second order with R² 0.989 and 0.986 for MO and Cr (VI) model best fitted with the experimental data. The values of thermodynamics parameters Gibbs free energy change ΔG°, heat of enthalpy ΔH° and, heat of entropy ΔS° indicate that spontaneous, endothermic, and irreversible adsorption reactions occurred. Overall, it is concluded from our observations that hexagonal ZnO has the potential to be used as an eco-friendly, cost-effective adsorbent for simultaneous remaoval of both MO and Cr (VI) from water. Findings of the current investigation provide valuable insights for the development of an inexpensive, effective and sustainable filtration method for the treatment of MO and Cr (VI) synergistically.

"Vermellogens" and the Development of CB[8]-Based Supramolecular Switches Using pH-Responsive and Non-Toxic Viologen Analogues

We present herein the "vermellogens", a new class of pH-responsive viologen analogues, which replace the direct linking between para-substituted pyridinium moieties within those by a hydrazone functional group. A series of such compounds have been efficiently synthesized in aqueous media by hydrazone exchange reactions, displaying a marked pH-responsivity. Furthermore, the parent N,N'-dimethylated "vermellogen": the "red thread", an analogue of the herbicide paraquat and used herein as a representative model of the series, showed anion-recognition abilities, non-reversible electrochemical behavior, and non-toxicity of the modified bis-pyridinium core. The host-guest chemistry for the "red thread" with the CB[7,8] macrocyclic receptors has been extensively studied experimentally and by dispersion corrected density functional theory methods, showing a parallel behavior to that previously described for the herbicide but, crucially, swapping the well-known redox reactive capabilities of the viologen-based inclusion complexes by acid-base supramolecular responsiveness.

Calix[6]arene functionalized lanthanide metal-organic frameworks with boosted performance in identifying an anti-epidemic pharmaceutical

A novel composite was fabricated by hybridizing terbium 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic MOF (TB-MOF) with Cx[6]. The obtained composite TB-Cx[6] possessed long-term stability and dispersion stability and was used for on-site analysis of the anti-COVID-19 disinfection product Prednis via a combing remote sampling technique.

Construction of a pH-Mediated Single-Molecule Switch with a Nanopore-DNA Complex

A molecular switch is one of the simplest examples of artificial molecular machines. Even so, the development of molecular switches is still at its very early stage. Currently, building single-molecule switches mostly rely on the molecular junction technique, but many of their performance characteristics are device-dependent. Here, a pH-mediated single-molecule switch based on the combination of an α-hemolysin (αHL) nanopore and a hexacyclen-modified DNA strand is developed. The single-stranded DNA is suspended inside an αHL through biotin-streptavidin linkage and the hexacyclen-modified nucleobase interacts with amino acid residues at positions 111, 113, and 147 to cause current oscillations. Distinct current transitions are observed when pH is tuned back and forth in the range of 3.0-7.4, with a typical "up" level when pH > 6.5 and a "down" level when pH < 4.5. This nanopore-DNA complex possesses membrane-bound advantages and may find applications in single-cell studies where pH could be readily tuned to control ON-OFF functions.

A bright chemiluminescence conjugated polymer-mesoporous silica nanoprobe for imaging of colonic tumors in vivo

Hypochlorite acid (ClO^-) is one of the major reactive oxygen species (ROS) in colon cancer, providing an effective target for colonic tumor in vivo imaging. For detection of ClO^- and tumor imaging, poly[(9,9-di(2-ethylhexyl)-9H-fluorene-2,7-vinylene)-co-(1-methoxy-4-(2-ethylhexyloxy)-2,5-phenylenevinylene)] (PFV-co-MEHPV, namely CP1) was encapsulated in mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) that were pre-modified with polyphenylenevinylene (PPV) via in situ polymerization to construct bright PPV@MSN-CP1 nanoparticles. The synthesized nanoparticles were size-stable and not cytotoxic as confirmed by FE-TEM, FE-SEM, and MTT assay. Hypochlorite oxidizes the vinylidene bond of CP1 through π²-π² cycloaddition to form PPV-dioxetane intermediates to generate photons. The CL quantum yield of PPV@MSN-CP1 was 16.7 times higher than that of Pluronic F-127 wrapped CP1. CL nanoparticles PPV@MSN-CP1 have good selectivity for hypochlorite detection among biological oxidants (mainly ROS). The linear range and the LOD of PPV@MSN@CP1 for ClO^- detection are 4-90 and 1.02 μM, respectively. Subsequently, we further coated PPV@MSN@CP1 with folic acid for tumor targeting by phospholipid wrapping. PPV@MSN-CP1@FA was successfully applied for in vivo imaging of endogenously produced ClO^- of tumor tissue in living animals.

Orthogonal Design of Supramolecular Prodrug Vesicles via Water-Soluble Pillar[5]arene and Betulinic Acid Derivative for Dual Chemotherapy

Supramolecular prodrug vesicles with efficient property for dual chemotherapy have been successfully constructed based on the orthogonal self-assembly between a water-soluble pillar[5]arene host (WP5) and a betulinic acid guest (BA-D) as well as doxorubicin (DOX). Under the acidic microenvironment of cancer cells, both the encapsulated anticancer drug DOX and prodrug BA-D can be effectively released from DOX-loaded WP5⊃BA-D prodrug vesicles for combinational chemotherapy. Furthermore, bioexperiments indicate that DOX-loaded prodrug vesicles can obviously enhance the anticancer efficiency based on the cooperative effect of DOX and BA-D, while remarkably reducing the systematic toxicity in tumor-mice, displaying great potential applications in combinational chemotherapy for cancer treatments.

Smart Nanocarrier Based on Poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate) Terminated pH-Responsive Polymer Brushes Grafted Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles

A platform technology based on inorganic/organic nanoparticles for carrying drugs could be of enormous potential benefit in treating cancer. Surface modification of the nanoparticles with pH-responsive and biocompatible polymers can improve the selectivity and targeting toward the tumor cells. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and its derivatives being present on the surface could enhance the ability to tailor nanomaterial hydrophilicity and to resist the adhesion of proteins and/or cells. Herein, we report a new nanoplatform based on mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) conjugated with poly(2-(diethylamino) ethyl methacrylate) (PDEAEMA) brushes as a candidate for stimuli-responsive intracellular drug delivery system. Alkyl bromide functional initiators (end-functionalized PDEAEMA brushes) were derivatized to amine, followed by the reaction with ethylene sulfide and poly(oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether acrylate (POEGMEA). Using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to examine the attachment of POEGMEA, it was found that the POEGMEA molecules in the outer surface of PDEAEMA brushes have been successfully reacted with thiol groups, as indicated by the increase in the peak intensity of the C–O group at 286.5 eV. Brush-modified silica hybrids have an average diameter of ca. 250 nm, as estimated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Rhodamine B dye was loaded into the brush-modified silica hybrids nanoparticles with loading capacity of ca. 74%. The accumulated dye released from brush-modified particles in acidic media was approximately 60%, whereas the dye amount release in basic media was less than 15% after 10 h exposure time. Alamar Blue assay was used to assess the cytotoxicity of MSNs–PDEAEMA, MSNs–PDEAEMA–SH, and MSNs–PDEAEMA–POEGMEA. The results show that all three nanosystems were non-toxic to hMSC with an increase in cell proliferation for MSNs–PDEAEMA–POEGMEA at 50 µg/mL after both 24 and 48 h of incubation.

Hierarchical MOF-on-MOF Architecture for pH/GSH-Controlled Drug Delivery and Fe-Based Chemodynamic Therapy

Chemotherapy is still an important and effective clinical treatment for cancer. However, individual drugs hardly achieve precise controlled release and targeted therapy, thus resulting in unavoidable side effects. Fortunately, the emergence of drug carriers is expected to solve the above problems. In this work, the MOF-on-MOF strategy was adopted to encapsulate DOX into double-layer NH2-MIL-88B to fabricate a core-shell-structured DOX@NH2-MIL-88B-On-NH2-MIL-88B (DMM) and then realize the pH and GSH dual-responsive controlled DOX release. Because of the core-shell structure, the drug-loading capacity of DMM reached 14.4 wt %, which was nearly twice that of DOX@NH2-MIL-88B (DM), and the controlled release performance of DMM was also improved at the same time, greatly improving the kinetics equilibrium time of DOX from 2 h (DM) to 16 h (DMM) at pH 5.0. Moreover, we found that DMM also possessed peroxidase-like catalytic activity under acidic conditions, which could catalyze H2O2 to produce •OH, exhibiting the potential chemodynamical treatment of cancer. Cell experiments showed that DMM had a significant inhibitory effect against 4T1 cancer cells, and the survival rate of 4T1 cells was less than 20% at 100 ppm.

Strategy for Conjugating Oligopeptides to Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Using Diazirine-Based Heterobifunctional Linkers

Successful strategies for the attachment of oligopeptides to mesoporous silica with pores large enough to load biomolecules should utilize the high surface area of pores to provide an accessible, protective environment. A two-step oligopeptide functionalization strategy is examined here using diazirine-based heterobifunctional linkers. Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) with average pore diameter of ~8 nm and surface area of ~730 m²/g were synthesized and amine-functionalized. Tetrapeptides Gly-Gly-Gly-Gly (GGGG) and Arg-Ser-Ser-Val (RSSV), and a peptide comprised of four copies of RSSV (4RSSV), were covalently attached via their N-terminus to the amine groups on the particle surface by a heterobifunctional linker, sulfo-succinimidyl 6-(4,4′-azipentanamido)hexanoate (sulfo-NHS-LC-diazirine, or SNLD). SNLD consists of an amine-reactive NHS ester group and UV-activable diazirine group, providing precise control over the sequence of attachment steps. Attachment efficiency of RSSV was measured using fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-tagged RSSV (RSSV-FITC). TGA analysis shows similar efficiency (0.29, 0.31 and 0.26 mol peptide/mol amine, respectively) for 4G, RSSV and 4RSSV, suggesting a generalizable method of peptide conjugation. The technique developed here for the conjugation of peptides to MSNPs provides for their attachment in pores and can be translated to selective peptide-based separation and concentration of therapeutics from aqueous process and waste streams.

Supramolecular systems prepared using terpyridine-containing pillararene

Recent progresses about the preparation of terpyridine-containing pillararene, as well as the utilization of those building blocks for making external stimulud-responsive supramolecular systems were summarized in this review.

Inclusion of cyclodextrins in a metallosupramolecular framework via structural transformations

The inclusion of α-cyclodextrin and both α- and γ-cyclodextrins in a multilayer framework composed of d-penicillaminato AuI3CoIII2 complex anions and aqua sodium(i) cations via solvent-mediated structural transformations are reported.

“The red cage”: implementation of pH-responsiveness within a macrobicyclic pyridinium-based molecular host

The “red cage”, a new pyridinium-based macrobicyclic host, has been found to complex model aromatic substrates in aqueous media in a pH-responsive fashion.

Mesoporous Silica Nanoprodrug Encapsulated with Near-Infrared Absorption Dye for Photothermal Therapy Combined with Chemotherapy

Based on the tumor microenvironment with weak acidic characteristics, a nano-drug delivery system that achieves controlled release of drugs through the pH response has been a popular strategy to improve the effectiveness of tumor therapy and reduce toxic side effects, and combining photothermal therapy (PTT) on this basis can help improve the antitumor effect. In this study, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) were surface-modified with polymer poly(PEGMA-co-HEMA) via surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization, and a multifunctional nanoplatform MSN@poly(PEGMA-co-HEMA-g-doxorubicin (DOX)/indocyanine green (ICG) was designed for effective photothermal/chemotherapy combination therapy. The anticancer drug DOX was anchored to the polymer on the surface of MSN by reversible covalent bond cis-aconitic anhydride with a drug loading of 10%. Meanwhile, the small-molecule dye was loaded into the pores of MSN, and PTT mediated by near-infrared (NIR) radiation could further kill cancer cells. Under low-pH stimulation, the cis-aconitic anhydride bond breaks and DOX is released, with a 65% increase in cumulative drug release over 50 h compared to that at pH 7.4 (normal physiological environment). The high temperature induced by photothermal conversion accelerated the reversible covalent bond breakage, and the cumulative drug release at pH 5.0 for 3 h at elevated temperature up to 50 °C increased by 24.3% compared with that under normal physiological conditions (T = 37 °C), demonstrating that increasing the temperature can reduce the time required to reach blood drug concentration. In vitro cytotoxicity results revealed that the prodrug delivery system showed stronger cytotoxicity under NIR light irradiation compared with free DOX, with more than 90% of tumor cells killed after 48 h. Therefore, MSN@poly(PEGMA-co-HEMA-g-DOX)/ICG enhanced the synergistic effect of chemotherapy through photothermal action and accelerated reversible chemical bond cleavage, which has great potential in the combined therapy of cancer.

Pillararene-based molecular-scale porous materials

This review discusses the design and syntheses of molecular-scale pillar[n]arene-based porous materials with promising applications and summarises the development of using pillar[n]arenes as the building blocks of porous materials. From the perspective of "role of participation" in the syntheses of molecular-scale pillar[n]arene-based porous materials, the content can be divided into pillar[n]arenes serving as supramolecular nanovalves on surfaces and as ligands for metal-organic frameworks and covalent organic polymers. By integrating pillararenes, which possess rigid pillar-like structures, electron-rich cavities and desirable host-guest properties, with porous polymers of large surface areas and abundant active sites, applications of the resulting materials in drug release platforms, molecular recognition, sensing, detection, gas adsorption, removal of water pollution, organic photovoltaic materials and heterogeneous catalysis can be realised simultaneously and efficiently. Finally, in the conclusions and perspectives part, we put forward the challenges and viewpoints of the current research on pillar[n]arene-based porous materials. We hope this article can provide a timely and valuable reference for researchers interested in synthetic macrocycles and porous materials.

Approaches to inhibit biofilm formation applying natural and artificial silk-based materials

The discovery of penicillin started a new era of health care since it allowed the effective treatment of formerly deadly infections. As a drawback, its overuse led to a growing number of multi-drug resistant pathogens. Challenging this arising threat, material research focuses on the development of microbe-killing or microbe repellent agents implementing such functions directly into materials. Due to their biocompatibility, non-immunogenicity and mechanical strength, silk-based materials are attractive candidates for applications in the biomedical field. Furthermore, it has been observed that silks display high persistency in their natural environment giving reason to suspect that they might be attractive candidates to prevent microbial infestation. The current review describes the process of biofilm formation on medical devices and the most common strategies to prevent it, divided into effects of surface topography, material modification and integrated additives. In this context, recent state of the art developments in the field of natural and artificial silk-based materials with microbe-repellant or antimicrobial properties are addressed. These silk properties are controversially discussed and conclusions are drawn as to which parameters will be decisive for the successful design of new bio-functional materials based on the blueprint of silk proteins.

Light- and pH-regulated Water-soluble Pseudorotaxanes Comprising a Cucurbit[7]uril and a Flavylium-based Axle

A linear double pyridinium-terminated thread comprising a central chalcone moiety is shown to provide two independent binding sites with similar affinity for cucurbit[7]uril (CB7) macrocycles in water as judged from NMR, UV-Visible and fluorescence spectroscopies. Association results in [2] and [3]pseudorotaxanes, which are both pH and photosensitive. Switching from the neutral chalcone to the cationic flavylium form upon irradiation at 365 nm under acidic conditions provided an enhanced CB7 association (K_1:1 increases from 1.2×10⁵  M^-1 to 1.5×10⁸  M^-1 ), limiting spontaneous on-thread cucurbituril shuttling. This co-conformational change in the [2]pseudorotaxane is reversible in the dark with k_obs =4.1×10^-4  s^-1 . Threading the flavylium moiety into CB7 leads to a dramatic increase in the fluorescence quantum yield, from 0.29 in the free axle to 0.97 in the [2]pseudorotaxane and 1.0 in the [3]pseudorotaxane.

Supramolecular Drug Delivery System from Macrocycle-Based Self-Assembled Amphiphiles for Effective Tumor Therapy

Intelligent drug delivery systems (DDSs) that can improve therapeutic outcomes of antitumor agents and decrease their side effects are urgently needed to satisfy special requirements of treatment of malignant tumors in clinics. Here, the fabrication of supramolecular self-assembled amphiphiles based on the host-guest recognition between a cationic water-soluble pillar[6]arene (WP6A) host and a sodium decanesulfonate guest (G) is reported. The chemotherapeutic agent doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) can be encapsulated into the formed vesicle (G/WP6A) to construct supramolecular DDS (DOX@G/WP6A). WP6A affords strong affinities to G to avoid undesirable off-target leakage during delivery. Nanoscaled DOX@G/WP6A is capable of preferentially accumulating in tumor tissue via enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. After internalization by tumor cells, the abundant adenosine triphosphate (ATP) binds competitively with WP6A to trigger the disintegration of self-assembled vesicles with the ensuing release of DOX. In vitro and in vivo research confirmed that DOX@G/WP6A is not only able to promote antitumor efficacy but also reduce DOX-related systemic toxicity. The above favorable findings are ascribed to the formation of ternary self-assembly, which profits from the combination of the factors of the EPR effect and the ATP-triggered release.

Multifunctional Nanoaggregates Composed of Active CPUL1 and a Triphenylphosphine Derivative for Mitochondria-Targeted Drug Delivery and Cell Imaging

We report that active substance (CPUL1) and triphenylphosphine (TPP) derivative could self-assemble into multifunctional nanoaggregates (CPUL1-TPP NAs) through electrostatic and π-π stacking interactions. CPUL1 was wrapped tightly inside the nanoparticles as well as CPUL1 and TPP derivative self-assembled into stable and compact nanoparticles in water. The positive surface charge of CPUL1-TPP NAs made them much easier to be endocytosed to enter cytoplasm, accumulate in the mitochondria and induce cell apoptosis based on their mitochondria targeting ability, fluorescence property and fast cell uptake characteristic, which showed better antitumor efficacy on HUH7 hepatoma cells in vitro than that of free CPUL1.

Near-infrared light-responsive hybrid hydrogels for the synergistic chemo-photothermal therapy of oral cancer

Light-stimulus-responsive therapies have been recognized as a promising strategy for the efficient and safe treatment of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Hydrogels have emerged as a promising multifunctional platform combining localized drug delivery and sustained drug release with multimodal properties for combined OSCC therapy. However, inaccurate drug release and limited light-absorption efficiency have hindered their on-demand chemo-photothermal applications. To tackle these problems, an injectable and near-infrared (NIR) light-responsive hybrid system was developed by incorporating light-responsive mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as doxorubicin (DOX) carriers into the IR820/methylcellulose hydrogel networks for chemophotothermal therapy. Under NIR radiation, the incorporated IR820, a new green cyanine dye, was excited to induce photothermal effects against tumor cells. Meanwhile, MSNs achieved self-degradation-controlled DOX release via the cleavage of diselenide bonds induced by reactive oxygen species. Through the combination of chemotherapy and phototherapy, a long-lasting synergistic anti-tumor effect was achieved in vitro and in vivo with less toxicity. These findings demonstrate the potential of light-responsive hydrogels as a multifunctional platform for accurate synergistic chemophotothermal treatment of OSCC.

Nanoparticles for Triple Drug Release for Combined Chemo- and Photodynamic Therapy

A pH-responsive drug delivery system (DDS) based on mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) has been prepared for the delivery of three anticancer drugs with different modes of action. The novelty of this system is its ability to combine synergistic chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy. A photoactive conjugate of a phthalocyanine (Pc) and a topoisomerase I inhibitor (topo-I), namely camptothecin (CPT), linked by a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chain has been synthesized and then loaded into the mesopores of MSNs. Doxorubicin (DOX), which is a topoisomerase II inhibitor (topo-II), has also been covalently anchored to the outer surface of the MSNs through a dihydrazide PEG linker. In the acidic environment of tumor cells, selective release of the three drugs takes place. In vitro studies have demonstrated the endocytosis of the system into HeLa and HepG2 cells, and the subsequent release of the three drugs into the cytoplasm and nucleus. Furthermore, the cytotoxic effect of DOX, CPT and Pc has been assessed in vitro before and upon light irradiation.

Electro-Mechanochemical Gating of a Metal-Phenolic Nanocage for Controlled Guest-Release Self-Powered Patches and Injectable Gels

Recent advances have led to the development of intelligent drug-delivery systems such as microchips, micropumps, and soft devices with sensors; however, the facile preparation of transdermal and implantable systems modulable to various stimuli remains elusive. In addition, the use of a battery limits their wearable and implantable applications. Therefore, to overcome these disadvantages, we herein suggest a facile strategy to prepare electro-mechanochemically responsive soft gel composites with molecular gatekeeper-based nanocontainers. We found that a metal-phenolic coordination network can act as an efficient self-healable and adaptive gatekeeper in response to electrical and mechanical stimuli owing to the reversible dynamic bonds and adhesiveness to the silica surface. The porous channels of mesoporous silica nanoparticles are filled with guest molecules, and the exterior is wrapped with metal-tannic acid (TA) networks. Owing to the robustness of metal-phenolic network, the guest molecules are efficiently entrapped in the channels but released by electrical and ultrasound input. Voltage-dependent changes in the guest release rate provide control over the dosage on demand. The combination of hydrogel matrixes with the responsive nanocapsules enables the construction of a series of adaptive gel composites capable of successive guest release in response to electrical, ultrasound, electromechanical, and triboelectric stimuli. The Korsmeyer-Peppas model revealed that the release mechanism is non-Fickian, which indicates the presence of boundaries around the guest-loading channels (n = 0.739, R² = 0.9574 when 2 V is applied). This study realized efficient platforms for active-type drug-delivery applications based on transdermal patches and implantable gels with remotely controllable release characteristics.

A simple pillar[5]arene assembled multi-functional material with ultrasensitive sensing, self-healing, conductivity and host-guest stimuli-responsive properties

Multi-functional materials have received wide attention due to their potential applications in various fields; therefore, developing a simple and easy strategy for the preparation of multi-functional materials is an interesting issue. In this work, a novel supramolecular gel, TP-QG, has been successfully constructed via the assembly of a simple methoxyl-pillar[5]arene host (TP) and a tripodal (tri-pyridine-4-yl)-amido-benzene guest (Q). Interestingly, TP-QG could act as a multi-functional material and showed strong fluorescence, good self-healing, host-guest stimuli-responsiveness and conductive properties. Due to these properties, TP-QG shows a fascinating application prospect. For instance, TP-QG could exhibit ultrasensitive fluorescence response for Fe³⁺ and F^- in water via the fluorescence "ON-OFF-ON" pathway; the lowest detection limit (LOD) of TP-QG for Fe³⁺ was 2.32 × 10^-10 M and the LOD of TP-QG-Fe for F^- was 4.30 × 10^-8 M. These properties permit TP-QG to act as not only a Fe³⁺ and F^- sensor, but also an "ON-OFF-ON" fluorescence display material and an efficient logic gate. Meanwhile, the xerogel of TP-QG could remove Fe³⁺ from water, and the adsorption ratio was 98.68%; the xerogel of TP-QG-Fe could also remove F^- from water; the removal ratio was about 87.92%. This work provides a feasible way to construct multi-functional smart materials by host-guest assembly.

Recyclable Supramolecular Assembly-Induced Emission System for Selective Detection and Efficient Removal of Mercury(II)

An efficient strategy for simultaneously detecting and removing Hg²⁺ from water is vital to address mercury pollution. Herein a supramolecular assembly G⊂H with photoluminescent properties is facilely constructed through the self-assembly of a functional pillar[5]arene bearing two N,N-dimethyldithiocarbamoyl binding sites (H) and an AIE-active tetraphenylethene derivative (G). Remarkably, the fluorescence of G⊂H can be exclusively quenched by Hg²⁺ among the 30 cations due to the formation of non-luminous ground state complex and only L-cysteine can restore fluorescence in the common 20 amino acids. Meanwhile, the probe G⊂H has a considerable thermal and pH stability, a good anti-interference property from various cations, and a satisfactory sensitivity. More importantly, G⊂H exhibits a prominent capability of Hg²⁺ removal with rapid capture rate (within 1 h) and excellent adsorption efficiency (98 %), as well as a highly efficient recyclability without losing any adsorption activity.

Protein-Gated Upconversion Nanoparticle-Embedded Mesoporous Silica Nanovehicles via Diselenide Linkages for Drug Release Tracking in Real Time and Tumor Chemotherapy

Two novel stimuli-responsive drug delivery systems (DDSs) were successfully created from bovine serum albumin- or myoglobin-gated upconversion nanoparticle-embedded mesoporous silica nanovehicles (UCNP@mSiO2) via diselenide (Se-Se)-containing linkages. More importantly, multiple roles of each scaffold of the nanovehicles were achieved. The controlled release of the encapsulated drug doxorubicin (DOX) within the mesopores was activated by triple stimuli (acidic pH, glutathione, or H2O2) of tumor microenvironments, owing to the conformation/surface charge changes in proteins or the reductive/oxidative cleavages of the Se-Se bonds. Upon release of DOX, the Förster resonance energy transfer between the UCNP cores and encapsulated DOX was eliminated, resulting in an increase in ratiometric upconversion luminescence for DOX release tracking in real time. The two protein-gated DDSs showed some differences in the drug release performances, relevant to structures and properties of the protein nanogates. The introduction of the Se-Se linkages not only increased the versatility of reductive/oxidative cleavages but also showed less cytotoxicity to all cell lines. The DOX-loaded protein-gated nanovehicles showed the inhibitory effect on tumor growth in tumor-bearing mice and negligible damage/toxicity to the normal tissues. The constructed nanovehicles in a spatiotemporally controlled manner have fascinating prospects in targeted drug delivery for cancer chemotherapy.