Search Results (188)

In medicine, nanoparticles are used for various purposes, including theranostics, imaging, diagnostics, drug delivery, tissue regeneration and targeted cancer treatments, and to minimize the harmful side effects associated with conventional therapies. Target-specific biomolecules, such as silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) labeled with metallic radionuclides, are becoming increasingly popular. The choice of radionuclide is based on its nuclear properties. Silica has several advantages for nanoparticle synthesis, including high biocompatibility, the capacity for drug encapsulation due to its porous structure, and the potential for extensive surface functionalization, including radiolabeling for imaging and therapeutic applications. A radionuclide can be attached to a silica nanoparticle either directly or through the use of chelators or polymers. Additionally, the capability to encapsulate therapeutic agents within such systems offers significant potential for the development of targeted therapies. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of recent developments in the radiolabeling of silica-based nanoparticles, with a focus on their application in nuclear medicine, particularly in diagnostic imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy. Theranostics employs a range of imaging modalities to guide and monitor therapeutic interventions. Principal techniques include positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and Optical Imaging (such as fluorescence and bioluminescence). These imaging methods enable precise visualization of pathological sites, facilitate tracking of therapeutic agent distribution, and permit real-time assessment of treatment efficacy. Full article

Background/Objectives: This paper describes the synthesis of silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) and their surface modification with amino and phosphate groups (SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃). The functionalized nanoparticles were subsequently loaded with the anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil (SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃-5-FLU) and further modified with PEG2000 (SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃-5-FLU-PEG2000). Methods: In this study, a one-step, two-phase, sol–gel method carried out at room temperature was used to synthesize the nanoparticles. The size and surface zeta potential of the created SiNPs were determined by DLS measurements. HPLC was used to determine the amount of drug loaded into silica nanoparticles and the drug release profile in two different pH environments (slightly acidic and physiological). Based on physicochemical characteristics, the SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃-5-FLU and SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃-5-FLU-PEG2000 formulations were chosen for comprehensive characterization. The cytotoxicity of the studied complexes was assessed in MCF7 breast cancer cells, while their ability to induce apoptosis in those cells was examined using specific immunofluorescence markers: active caspase-7, active poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), and p53 protein. Results: Our findings demonstrate that SiNPs-NH₂-PO₃-5-FLU can induce a stronger apoptotic response than free 5-FLU at equivalent concentrations. We observed that drug release occurs not only under physiological conditions but is further enhanced in a mildly acidic environment (pH 5.0), characteristic of the tumor microenvironment. Conclusions: Most 5-fluorouracil formulations are administered as injectable solutions, resulting in systemic exposure and significant adverse effects. However, their encapsulation within nanoparticles could favor preferential drug release in the acidic tumor microenvironment, thus supporting targeted therapy and reducing toxicity to healthy tissues. Moreover, PEGylation of the nanoformulation allows prolonged and controlled release. Full article

Micro- and nano-container-based self-healing coatings have emerged as a promising strategy for the long-term conservation of cultural heritage artifacts, including metals, stone, organic matter, and construction materials. These coatings incorporate microcapsules or nanocapsules with tailored shell and core materials, enabling autonomous release of healing agents or corrosion inhibitors in response to damage. For metallic artifacts, benzotriazole@mesoporous silica nanoparticles (BTA@MSN) microcapsules achieve selective pH-responsive release, reaching 77% at pH 9.0 and 42% at pH 5.0, effectively mitigating localized corrosion. Temperature-adaptive poly(methyl methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid) (PMMA-MA)/MgO microcapsules exhibit controlled rupture rates, with a 75% reduction at elevated temperatures, enhancing crack repair efficiency by approximately 5%. Organic artifacts, such as wooden or paper manuscripts, benefit from clove oil nanocapsules, which increase tensile strength by 43.5% and fracture toughness by 101.9%, with only 2.91% weight loss over 7 days compared to 33.1% for unencapsulated oil. Advanced fabrication methods—including microfluidics, Pickering emulsions, and multi-core systems—enable high encapsulation efficiency (up to 73.5%), uniform particle size, and repeatable healing. Multi-stimuli responsiveness (pH, temperature, light, magnetic fields) and biobased, environmentally friendly materials further enhance adaptability and sustainability. In this review, “self-healing” is defined broadly to include both physical crack repair and autonomous restoration of protective functions. Overall, self-healing micro/nanocapsule coatings provide a highly controllable, efficient, and durable solution for active heritage protection, representing a shift from passive to intelligent conservation strategies. Furthermore, a systematic comparison of different capsule systems is provided to clarify their respective advantages and limitations. Overall, hybrid systems exhibit the most balanced performance, while inorganic nanocontainers offer superior stability and controlled release, and polymeric capsules enable rapid healing but limited reusability. Full article

Nano- and microplastic contamination poses a growing challenge to aquatic environments, driving the need for efficient and sustainable removal technologies. In this study, carbon–silica hybrid nanoparticles (CSNPs) were synthesized from rice husk-derived black liquor via controlled lignin–silica self-assembly followed by thermal carbonization, providing a waste-recycling biorefinery route for value-added material production. Structural characterizations revealed that carbonization generates a hierarchically porous carbon–silica hybrid with enhanced surface area. The CSNPs exhibited rapid and size-dependent adsorption toward nano- and microplastics (200–1000 nm), with optimal performance observed for 500 nm particles. Microscopic observations further demonstrated a size-adaptive capture mechanism, involving pore filling and surface adsorption for nanoplastics and aggregate-assisted encapsulation for larger microplastics. This study highlights CSNPs as low-cost and effective adsorbents for broad-spectrum plastic removal while offering a sustainable pathway for the high-value utilization of black liquor and rice husk biomass in water purification applications. Full article

Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) plays a very vital role in industrial and biological processes, but its high concentration may cause health hazards. Therefore, accurate detection of H₂O₂ is crucial for chemical and biological sensing applications. In this work, a ratiometric fluorescent probe was developed using a core–shell structural silica nanoparticle for the detection of H₂O₂. Firstly, a silica core structure with red fluorescence emission was constructed by encapsulating a Schiff base compound (SD). Afterwards, a mesoporous silica shell was fabricated, and the AIE featured fluorophore with a H₂O₂ response character was covalently linked on the surface of the mesoporous shell layer. As recognition sites on the shell, blue-emitting TB molecules specifically identified H₂O₂ through their phenylboronic acid ester group. The blue fluorescence of core–shell structural nanoprobes would be quenched in the presence of H₂O₂, while red fluorescence remained unchanged, ensuring the high sensitivity and specificity of the ratio sensing. This design has demonstrated significant potential for the reliable monitoring of hydrogen peroxide in biological and environmental applications. Full article

With the advancement of new power systems, phase-change materials (PCMs), owing to their ability to convert and store electrical energy, are increasingly recognized as a key solution to the intermittency of power supply. Nevertheless, such materials face challenges, including leakage and low thermal conductivity, which lead to reduced utilization efficiency. In this study, guar gum was used as the macroscopic framework, while self-prepared and optimized silica aerogel microsheets served as the microscopic framework to synergistically encapsulate the polyethylene glycol (PEG). Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles were incorporated to improve overall thermal conductivity, resulting in the composite PCM, GTS-PEG. In-depth characterization demonstrated effective PEG retention within the matrix, with a melting heat storage density of 164.16 J/g. Upon 30 min of continuous heating at 90 °C, the mass loss remained as low as 4.83%, indicating excellent thermal stability. The addition of TiO₂ increased thermal conductivity to 0.53 W/(m·K), representing a 140% boost over unmodified material. As a result, GTS-PEG not only successfully overcomes the leakage and thermal conductivity limitations of conventional PCMs but also, as a green and low-carbon innovative solution, paves a new path for the coordinated optimization and efficient conversion of power grid energy systems. Full article

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) are among the most adaptable nanocarriers in modern pharmaceutics, characterized by a high surface area, tunable pore size, controllable morphology, and excellent biocompatibility. These qualities enable effective encapsulation, protection, and the delivery of drugs in a specific area and, therefore, MSNs are powerful platforms for the targeted and controlled delivery of drugs and theragnostic agents. Over the past ten years and within the 2021–2025 period, the advancement of MSN design has led to the creation of hybrid nanostructures into polymers, lipids, metals, and biomolecules that have yielded multifunctional carriers with enhanced stability, responsiveness, and biological activities. The current review provides a review of the synthesis methods, surface functionalization techniques, and physicochemical characterization techniques that define the next-generation MSN-based delivery systems. The particular focus is put on stimuli-responsive systems, such as redox, pH, enzyme-activated, and light-activated systems, that enable delivering drugs in a controlled and localized manner. We further provide a summary of the biomedical use of MSNs and their hybrids such as in cancer chemotherapy, gene and nucleic acid delivery, antimicrobial and vaccine delivery, and central nervous system targeting, supported by recent in vivo and in vitro studies. Important evaluations of biocompatibility, immunogenicity, degradation, and biodistribution in vivo are also provided with a focus on safety in addition to the regulatory impediments to clinical translation. The review concludes by saying that there are still limitations such as large-scale reproducibility, long-term toxicity, and standardization by the regulators, and that directions are being taken in the future in the fields of smart programmable nanocarriers, green synthesis, and sustainable manufacture. Overall, mesoporous silica and hybrid nanoparticles represent a breakthrough technology in the nanomedicine sector with potentials that are unrivaled in relation to targeted, controlled, and personalized therapeutic interventions. Full article

Multimodal nanocomposites that combine optical and magnetic functionalities are of great interest for applications such as imaging and temperature sensing. Ternary CuInS₂ (CIS)-based quantum dots (QDs) offer low toxicity, strong near-infrared (NIR) emission, and high photostability, making them promising for optical nanothermometry and imaging. In this study, CIS QDs were synthesized using an aqueous cysteine-mediated approach. Manganese ferrite (MnFe₂O₄) nanoparticles were prepared as the magnetic component due to their non-toxicity and superparamagnetic properties. To integrate both functionalities, QDs and magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were encapsulated in silica and then combined to form multimodal CIS/MnFe₂O₄/SiO₂ nanocomposites. The structure and morphology of the materials were characterized by TEM and XRD, while their optical properties were examined using UV–Vis, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. This design ensured optical isolation, preventing fluorescence quenching while maintaining colloidal stability. The obtained composites exhibited PL in the NIR region and a thermosensitivity of 2.04%/°C. TEM analysis confirmed uniform silica shell formation and successful integration of both components within the composite. The materials also retained the superparamagnetic behavior of MnFe₂O₄, making them suitable for combined optical and magnetic functionalities. These results demonstrate the potential of CIS/MnFe₂O₄/SiO₂ nanocomposites as multifunctional platforms for optical imaging, temperature monitoring, and magnetically modulated effects. Full article

Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor crystals a few nanometers in size. Due to their vibrant colors and unique photoluminescence (PL), QDs are widely utilized in displays, where barrier films provide essential shielding. However, one of the primary challenges of QD applications remains achieving sufficient robustness while keeping costs low. Over the past two decades, significant progress has been made in the encapsulation of QDs within silica matrices, aiming to preserve their original PL properties. Research efforts have evolved from bulk forms to thin films. Silica nanoparticles containing multiple embedded QDs have emerged as particularly promising candidates for practical applications. This review highlights recent advancements in silica-based QD encapsulation, incorporating findings from both the authors’ investigations and those of other research groups within the field. Silica glass possesses inherent shielding capabilities, but silane coupling agents such as (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane and (3-mercaptopropyl)trimethoxysilane tend to negatively impact this functionality when they are used alone, partly because of the limited formation of a well-developed glass network structure. However, when judiciously controlled, they can serve as mediators between the QD surface and the surrounding pure silica glass matrix, helping to preserve PL properties and control the morphology of silica particles. This review discusses the potential for achieving exceptional shielding properties through sol–gel glass fabrication at low temperatures, utilizing both tetraethoxysilane and other silane coupling agents. Full article

Cervical cancer represents a significant global health challenge. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) appears to be a promising, minimally invasive alternative to standard treatments. However, the clinical efficacy of PDT is sometimes limited by the low solubility and aggregation of photosensitizers, their non-selective distribution in the body, hypoxia in the tumor microenvironment, and limited light penetration. Recent advances in nanoparticle and nanocomposite platforms have addressed these challenges by integrating multiple functional components into a single delivery system. By encapsulating or conjugating photosensitizers in biodegradable matrices, such as mesoporous silica, organometallic structures and core–shell construct nanocarriers increase stability in water and extend circulation time, enabling both passive and active targeting through ligand decoration. Up-conversion and dual-wavelength responsive cores facilitate deep light conversion in tissues, while simultaneous delivery of hypoxia-modulating agents alleviates oxygen deprivation to sustain reactive oxygen species generation. Controllable “motor-cargo” constructs and surface modifications improve intratumoral diffusion, while aggregation-induced emission dyes and plasmonic elements support real-time imaging and quantitative monitoring of therapeutic response. Together, these multifunctional nanosystems have demonstrated potent cytotoxicity in vitro and significant tumor suppression in vivo in mouse models of cervical cancer. Combining targeted delivery, controlled release, hypoxia mitigation, and image guidance, engineered nanoparticles provide a versatile and powerful platform to overcome the current limitations of PDT and pave the way toward more effective, patient-specific treatments for cervical malignancies. Our review of the literature summarizes studies on nanoparticles and nanocomposites used in PDT monotherapy for cervical cancer, published between 2023 and July 2025. Full article

To address critical technical challenges in coalbed methane fracturing, including the uncontrollable release rate of conventional breaker agents and incomplete gel breaking, this study designs and fabricates an intelligent controlled-release breaker system based on paraffin-coated mesoporous silica nanoparticle carriers. Three types of mesoporous silica (MSN) carriers with distinct pore sizes are synthesized via the sol-gel method using CTAB, P123, and F127 as structure-directing agents, respectively. Following hydrophobic modification with octyltriethoxysilane, n-butanol breaker agents are loaded into the carriers, and a temperature-responsive controlled-release system is constructed via paraffin coating technology. The pore size distribution was analyzed by the BJH model, confirming that the average pore diameters of CTAB-MSNs, P123-MSNs, and F127-MSNs were 5.18 nm, 6.36 nm, and 6.40 nm, respectively. The BET specific surface areas were 686.08, 853.17, and 946.89 m²/g, exhibiting an increasing trend with the increase in pore size. Drug-loading performance studies reveal that at the optimal loading concentration of 30 mg/mL, the loading efficiencies of n-butanol on the three carriers reach 28.6%, 35.2%, and 38.9%, respectively. The release behavior study under simulated reservoir temperature conditions (85 °C) reveals that the paraffin-coated system exhibits a distinct three-stage release pattern: a lag phase (0–1 h) caused by paraffin encapsulation, a rapid release phase (1–8 h) induced by high-temperature concentration diffusion, and a sustained release phase (8–30 h) attributed to nano-mesoporous characteristics. This intelligent controlled-release breaker demonstrates excellent temporal compatibility with coalbed methane fracturing processes, providing a novel technical solution for the efficient and clean development of coalbed methane. Full article

Synthetic opal-based photonic materials with tunable optical properties not only exhibit significant application potential but also provide valuable models in terms of understanding color formation mechanisms in natural gemstones. Inspired by natural fire opals containing small amounts of Fe₂O₃ nanoparticle inclusions (0 wt%~0.23 wt%), we fabricated short-range ordered opal films doped with low concentrations (0 wt%~2.00 wt%) of Fe₂O₃@SiO₂ core–shell nanoparticles using a modified vertical deposition method. The Fe₂O₃@SiO₂ nanoparticles were synthesized via a sol–gel process to encapsulate the Fe₂O₃ core with a 10-nm-thick SiO₂ shell, preventing agglomeration and enhancing the chemical stability. Experimental results show that even small amounts of doping significantly affect the reflection peak intensity of the films, leading to notable color appearance changes. Combined with numerical simulations, we attribute this modulation to both light absorption and backward scattering effects introduced by the doped nanoparticles. Moreover, the numerical simulation results for Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles and Fe₂O₃@SiO₂ nanoparticles (with a 10 nm silica shell and similar particle size) show comparable optical properties, suggesting that such inclusions may contribute similarly to the color formation mechanisms in natural fire opals. This work demonstrates that low-concentration Fe₂O₃@SiO₂ NP doping provides an effective strategy to tune the color appearance of opal films, with implications for both structural color material development and gemological research. Full article

This study aims to delve into the application potential of immobilized lipases in the catalytic synthesis of isoamyl acetate. Through a comparative analysis of various immobilization methods, including physical adsorption, encapsulation, covalent binding, and crosslinking, along with the utilization of nanomaterials, such as magnetic nanoparticles, mesoporous silica SBA-15, and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) as carriers, the study systematically evaluates their enhancing effects on lipase catalytic performance. Additionally, solvent engineering strategies, encompassing the introduction of organic solvents, supercritical fluids, ionic liquids, and deep eutectic solvents, are employed to intensify the enzymatic catalytic process. These approaches effectively improve mass transfer efficiency, activate enzyme molecules, and safeguard enzyme structural stability, thereby significantly elevating the synthesis efficiency and yield of isoamyl acetate. Consequently, this research provides solid scientific rationale and technical support for the industrial production of flavor ester compounds. Full article

Fungal diseases represent a significant threat to global agriculture, leading to substantial crop losses and endangering food security worldwide. Conventional chemical fungicides, while effective, are increasingly criticized for their detrimental environmental impacts, including soil degradation, water contamination, and the disruption of non-target organisms. Additionally, the overuse of these fungicides has accelerated the emergence of resistant fungal strains, further challenging disease management strategies. In response to these issues, bio-nanofungicides and nano-biofungicides have emerged as a cutting-edge solution, combining biocompatibility, environmental safety, and enhanced efficacy. These advanced formulations integrate bio-based agents, such as microbial metabolites or plant extracts, with nanotechnology to improve their stability, controlled release, and targeted delivery. Chitosan, silica, and silver nanoparticles were extensively studied for their ability to encapsulate bioactive compounds or because of their outstanding antifungal activity, while minimizing environmental residues. Recent studies demonstrated the potential of nano-based fungicides to address critical gaps in sustainable agriculture, with promising applications in integrated pest management systems. Here, we summarize the last advances in the development of bio-nanofungicides and nano-biofungicides and analyze the main differences between them. In addition, challenges such as large-scale production, regulatory approval, and comprehensive risk assessments are discussed. Full article

Background/Objectives: Double emulsions (DEs) enable the simultaneous encapsulation of water-soluble and oil-soluble bioactive compounds. Their stability can be enhanced through Pickering stabilization, where solid particles are irreversibly anchored at the interfaces, forming a steric barrier. This study aimed to evaluate the release behavior of curcumin and chlorogenic acid (CA) in Pickering DEs formulated with chitin nanocrystals (ChNCs) stabilizing the outer interface (DE-ChNC) and both ChNCs and myristic acid-functionalized silica nanoparticles (SNPs-C14) stabilizing the outer and inner interfaces (DE-ChNC-C14) under in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. Methods: The optimal homogenization parameters (time and speed) for stabilizing the external interface with ChNCs were determined using a statistical design. Pickering DEs were characterized (droplet size and size distribution, microstructure, creaming, encapsulation efficiency and stability, rheological behavior) and subjected to the INFOGEST digestion method. Results: ChNCs effectively maintained the droplet size, microstructure, and ζ-potential, preventing coalescence and creaming while enhancing viscosity and gel-like behavior, contributing to improved physical stability. The CA encapsulation efficiency was higher in DE-ChNC-C14 (91.4%) than in DE-ChNC (45.0%) due to the presence of SNPs-C14 at the inner interface, which improved CA retention during storage. CA was gradually released from DE-ChNC-C14 throughout digestion, with bioaccessibility similar to that of the control DE (stabilized with conventional emulsifiers; ~60%). Curcumin bioaccessibility in the Pickering DEs was relatively high (~40%) but lower than in the control DE, as the ChNCs reduced lipid digestion and curcumin bioaccessibility. Conclusions: ChNCs and SNPs-C14 effectively stabilized the outer and inner interfaces of DEs, enabling the simultaneous release of water-soluble and oil-soluble bioactives with health benefits. Full article