Controlled Release Mechanisms for Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles

In recent years, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) have been extensively researched for application as a drug delivery method. The nanocarrier’s high surface area to volume ratio and ability for the exterior and interior surface to be selectively modified has inspired a full array of surface functionalization systems, including controlled release mechanisms. Controlled release mechanisms refer to the construction of chemical structures that can efficiently restrict and permit the release of medicinal cargo after application of a stimulus. Throughout this review, I have given a look into several proposed controlled release designs, including dimer photocleavage, snap-top machines, nanovalve machines using Cucurbit[n]uril and cyclodextrin rings, azobenzene nanoimpellers, and polymeric designs. These designs can be stimulated through a variety of triggers including light, pH, heat, reducing agents, enzymatic degradation, or other substrate concentration. Each design system offers a unique and promising architecture to be used in effective drug delivery.