Nana Zhao
Beijing University of Chemical Technology, China
Title: Versatile organic/inorganic nanohybrids for delivery systems
Biography
Biography: Nana Zhao
Abstract
Organic/inorganic nanohybrids with favorable physical and chemical properties constructed form suitable surface functionalization of inorganic nanoparticles (NPs) with superior polycations are promising candidates as carriers with multi-functions. The morphology (size and shape) of NPs are considered to have an intense influence on their interaction with cells and biological systems, while the effect of morphology on gene carriers are poorly understood. We developed several facile strategies to construct organic/inorganic nanohybrids of polycations and inorganic nanoparticles. Grafting-from, grafting onto and host-guest interactions were all utilized for the fabrication of nanohybrids. Furthermore, we employed SiO2 and Au NPs as model systems to investigate the morphology effect. A series of novel gene carriers based on polycation-functionalized SiO2 and Au NPs with different morphologies were designed and synthesized, including nanospheres, nano-octahedras, nanorods, arrow-headed nanorods and chiral nanorods, et al. The morphology of both SiO2 and Au NPs is demonstrated to play an important role in gene transfection. Based on the results, star-shaped hollow silica carriers with photothermal gold caps were synthesized for the co-delivery of drugs and genes. One dimensional nanohybrids of polycations and iron oxide or quantum dots were also designed and satisfying therapeutic effects were achieved. In addition, magnetic resonance (MR) or fluorescence imaging could be realized in the same nanostructure. Therefore, combing the intriguing properties of inorganic parts, the carriers could integrate the functions of imaging and be employed for theranostic platforms. These results may provide new avenues to develop promising carriers and useful information for the application of NPs in biomedical areas.