| Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles |
Naturally abundant Modifiable, nano-sized mesoporous structure Large pore volume High specific surface area Dual-functional exterior and interior surfaces Good biocompatibility and biodegradability Can be incorporated in magnetic applications Protects guest molecules before reaching target site
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Extra modifications or coatings on surface for specific functions (targeted delivery, co-delivery of drugs and siRNA, sustained release of drug, etc.) Unsuitable for encapsulating drug molecules larger than the size of its pores Extra coating needed to enhance stability of drug in the carrier
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| Polymeric Materials |
Cationic polymer encourages attachment of siRNA Hydrophobic core eases encapsulation Can be modified to have controlled release behaviours Can be designed to be sensitive to pH, temperature, chemical substances and enzymes Preferential accumulation in tumour tissues Various co-polymer combinations can be done to explore various potentials Protects guest molecules before reaching target site
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Toxicity dependent on the chemical structure of polymers Appropriate design of polymer drug carrier is vital Modifications are needed for better performance Structure modification is required in certain conditions to reduce the cytotoxicity
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| Liposomes |
Enables encapsulation of active agents Shielding effect reduces toxicity of chemotherapy drugs Improves cellular uptake Protects guest molecules before reaching target site Confers good drug stability Good controlled release profile Can be modified into cationic liposome for siRNA conjugation Manipulatable size Smart liposomes (sensitive to pH, temperature, enzymes and magnetic field) Imaging agents can be attached Good biocompatibility and biodegradability Low immunogenicity Able to penetrate the stratum corneum
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Restricted by rapid clearance from the bloodstream in the reticuloendothelial system (RES) Modifications are needed to prolong circulation time in blood Ligand attachment is needed for site-specific delivery Appropriate selection is needed depending on the application
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| Dendrimers |
Unique and precise molecular structure Conjugation of drugs through various types of bonding Uniform globular structure and molecular weight Wide range of generation number can be chosen for specific applications Manipulatable size and lipophilicity Can be engineered with ligands Low systemic toxicity Protects guest molecules before reaching target site
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Properties are highly dependent on functional group of outer shell Performance of carrier is dependent on the appropriate functional group chosen Appropriate selection and method of encapsulation is crucial
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| Gold nanoparticles |
Various morphologies available for different applications Variable optical properties Suitable for bioimaging applications Passive and preferential accumulation at tumour site High specific surface area Antimicrobial properties Good biocompatibility and biodegradability Least reactive element Ligands can be conjugated for various applications
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