Highly aminated mesoporous silica nanoparticles with cubic pore structure

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemistry

Background:

• Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with cubic symmetry are of significant research interest.
• Existing synthesis methods often require specific conditions or yield limited functionalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a robust room-temperature synthesis of cubic mesoporous silica nanoparticles (Pm3n symmetry).
• To achieve high incorporation of 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES) for enhanced functionality.
• To demonstrate control over pore size and particle size for tailored applications.

Main Methods:

• Room-temperature synthesis of mesoporous silica nanoparticles.
• Utilizing high molar ratios of 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES).
• Employing pore expander molecules to control pore size and particle dimensions.
• Co-condensation with organic dyes and subsequent PEGylation.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of mesoporous silica nanoparticles with cubic Pm3n symmetry.
• Achieved high molar ratios (>50%) of APTES without structural compromise.
• Demonstrated tunable pore sizes (2.7 nm to 5 nm) and reduced particle sizes.
• Engineered fluorescent nanoparticles with an average particle size of ~100 nm.
• Confirmed spontaneous cellular uptake of PEGylated fluorescent nanoparticles via fluorescence microscopy.

Conclusions:

• A facile and robust room-temperature synthesis for cubic mesoporous silica nanoparticles is established.
• The developed nanoparticles can be readily functionalized and their properties tuned.
• The synthesized nanoparticles exhibit efficient cellular uptake, highlighting their potential in nanomedicine and bioimaging.