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Models and Methods to Evaluate Transport of Drug Delivery Systems Across Cellular Barriers
Published on: October 17, 2013
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Nature engineered diatom biosilica as drug delivery systems
U T Uthappa1, Varsha Brahmkhatri1, G Sriram1
1Centre for Nano and Material Sciences, Jain University, Jain Global Campus, Bengaluru, 562112, Karnataka, India.
Summary
Diatoms, natural silica structures, offer a cost-effective, biocompatible alternative for drug delivery systems. This review explores their potential as sustainable nanocarriers, overcoming limitations of synthetic mesoporous silica.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Drug Delivery Systems
Background:
- Diatoms are unicellular algae with intricate siliceous cell walls (frustules), possessing excellent biocompatibility, high surface area, and ease of modification.
- Current mesoporous silica materials (MCM-41, SBA-15) used in drug delivery are synthesized via complex, costly, and environmentally taxing methods.
- There is a need for sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to synthetic porous materials for advanced drug delivery applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential of diatoms as natural, biosilica-based drug delivery vehicles.
- To discuss various diatom species, their structural properties, and purification methods for drug delivery applications.
- To explore surface functionalization strategies and recent advancements in diatom-based drug delivery.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on diatom species suitable for drug delivery.
- Analysis of diatom structural characteristics, morphology, and purification techniques.
- Examination of surface functionalization methods for enhanced drug loading and release.
Main Results:
- Diatom biosilica exhibits promising properties for cost-effective and biocompatible drug delivery.
- Specific diatom species offer unique structural advantages for nanocarrier development.
- Surface modification techniques can tailor diatoms for targeted drug delivery applications.
Conclusions:
- Diatoms represent a viable and sustainable alternative to synthetic mesoporous materials for drug delivery.
- Further research into purification, functionalization, and in vivo studies is crucial for clinical translation.
- Diatom-based drug delivery systems hold significant potential for future therapeutic applications.
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