Mesoporous silica nanoparticle-based nanomedicine: Preparation, functional modification, and theranostic applications

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have emerged as cornerstone biomaterials for nanomedicine due to their highly tunable physicochemical properties. This review highlights recent breakthroughs in MSN-based platforms for disease theranostics. We systematically outline fundamental synthesis strategies and detail how surface functionalization-imparting properties such as targeting, stimuli-responsiveness, and biomimicry-transforms MSNs from passive carriers into intelligent theranostic agents. The review then summarizes the major contributions of these engineered platforms across key diagnostic (e.g., advanced imaging) and therapeutic (e.g., targeted drug delivery, dynamic therapies) applications, underscoring their potential in tackling complex diseases. Finally, we address the critical challenges hindering clinical translation, including manufacturing scalability and long-term biocompatibility. We conclude by outlining future directions, such as integration with emerging modalities like immunotherapy, aimed at accelerating the bench-to-bedside transition of MSN-based nanomedicines.