Fig. 1.

Fusogenic pSi nanoparticle system (F-pSi). a Schematic showing mode of action of the fusogenic pSiNP. b Schematic showing nanoparticle synthesis, including (1) siRNA loading into the porous silicon nanoparticles and sealing by precipitation of calcium silicate; (2) coating of the nanoparticle clusters with cationic liposome; and (3) conjugation of targeting peptides to the liposomal exterior. c TEM image of final F-pSi constructs, showing cloudy liposomal coatings around dark and dense porous silicon-based cores. Imaged using JEOL 1200 EX TEM. Negative staining by 2% phosphotungstic acid. Scale bar indicates 200 nm