Imparting multi-functionality to covalent organic framework nanoparticles by the dual-ligand assistant encapsulation...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) offer potential applications but synthesizing uniform core@shell structures is challenging.
• Agglomeration and lack of monodispersity hinder the development of functional COF nanocomposites.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a versatile strategy for synthesizing monodispersed core@shell COF nanocomposites.
• To demonstrate the fabrication of various nanostructures with controllable shell thickness.
• To explore the application of these nanocomposites in near-infrared activated photodynamic therapy and drug delivery.

Main Methods:

• A dual-ligand assistant strategy was employed for the interfacial growth of COFs onto functional nanoparticles.
• The method allows for controlled shell thickness and prevents agglomeration regardless of core properties.
• Diverse nanostructures, including bowl-shape, yolk@shell, and core@satellites@shell, were fabricated.

Main Results:

• Uniform core@shell COF nanocomposites were successfully synthesized without agglomeration.
• The strategy proved versatile, working with various core compositions, geometries, and surface properties.
• Porphyrin-based COFs grown on upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) demonstrated potential for NIR-activated PDT and drug delivery.

Conclusions:

• The dual-ligand assistant strategy provides a robust method for creating advanced COF nanocomposites.
• These core@shell nanostructures offer a promising platform for biomedical applications, particularly in photodynamic therapy.
• The combination of UCNPs and COFs enables deep-tissue penetration and targeted drug delivery via NIR activation.