Dextran-gated, multifunctional mesoporous nanoparticle for glucose-responsive and targeted drug delivery

Design of drug delivery nanocarrier having targeted recognition followed by bioresponsive controlled release, especially via glucose-responsive release, is a challenging issue. Here, we report magnetic mesoporous silica (MMS)-based drug delivery nanocarrier that can target specific cell and release drug via glucose-responsive gate. The design involves synthesis of MMS functionalized with phenylboronic acid and folate. After drug loading inside the pores of MMS, outside of the pores are closed by dextran via binding with phenylboronic acid. Dextran-gated pores are opened for drug release in the presence of glucose that competes binding with phenylboronic acid. We found that tolbutamide and camptothecin loaded MMS can target beta cells and cancer cells, respectively, release drugs depending on bulk glucose concentration and offers glucose concentration dependent cytotoxicity. Developed functional MMS can be used for advanced drug delivery applications for diabetes and cancers with more efficient therapy.