ATP-responsive controlled release system using aptamer-functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP) is crucial for numerous cellular functions.
• Developing targeted, responsive delivery systems is vital for biological applications.
• Existing systems may lack specificity or efficiency in controlled release.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and evaluate an novel ATP-responsive controlled release system.
• To utilize mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) functionalized with aptamers for targeted delivery.
• To demonstrate selective guest molecule release triggered by ATP.

Main Methods:

• Functionalization of MSN with ATP aptamer-aptamer-DNA complexes via click chemistry.
• Loading of guest molecules (Ru(bipy)(3)(2+)) into functionalized MSN.
• Investigation of ATP-induced release kinetics and selectivity.

Main Results:

• High loading efficiency of guest molecules (215.0 μmol g(-1) SiO(2)).
• Significant release (83.2%) triggered by 20 mM ATP within 7 hours.
• Negligible leakage without ATP, demonstrating excellent capping and high selectivity for ATP.

Conclusions:

• The developed aptamer-capped MSN system provides efficient and selective ATP-responsive controlled release.
• The system demonstrates stability in biological conditions (mouse serum) and responsiveness to intracellular ATP.
• This approach offers a versatile platform for designing various target-responsive nanodevices.