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Published on: August 1, 2018
The biocompatibility of mesoporous silicates
Sarah P Hudson1, Robert F Padera, Robert Langer
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
Biomaterials
|August 5, 2008
Summary
Mesoporous silicate particles show promise for drug delivery but exhibit toxicity. Subcutaneous injection in rats was well-tolerated, while intravenous and intraperitoneal routes in mice proved fatal, suggesting potential for material modification.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Mesoporous silicate particles offer advantages for drug delivery due to their structure and surface area.
- Limited biocompatibility data exists for these materials, especially at high doses required for low-potency drugs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of micro- and nano-mesoporous silicate particles.
- To assess the in vivo performance of these particles following different administration routes.
Main Methods:
- In vitro cytotoxicity assays using mesothelial cells.
- Subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, and intravenous injections of mesoporous silicates in rats and mice.
- Histological analysis and monitoring for systemic toxicity.
Main Results:
- In vitro studies revealed significant toxicity at high concentrations.
- Subcutaneous injection in rats showed good biocompatibility and progressive material degradation over 3 months.
- Intraperitoneal and intravenous injections in mice led to severe systemic toxicity and death, potentially due to thrombosis.
Conclusions:
- Mesoporous silicates exhibit route-dependent toxicity, with subcutaneous administration showing better biocompatibility.
- Severe systemic toxicity observed in mice via certain routes highlights the need for material modification.
- Further research into modifying mesoporous silicates could mitigate toxicity and enhance their safety for drug delivery applications.
