Surface functionalized nanoparticles for DNA and drug delivery

Surface functionized nanoparticles provide versatile tools for biotechnology. Their unique nano-scale size and large surface-volume ratio make them ideal for recognition of small molecules, DNA and proteins. Here, we are using such nanoparticles as DNA/drug delivery agents in mammalian cells. The release processes were mediated inside cells using glutathione (GSH) or near-UV light. Both in vitro and in vivo release of drug/DNA payload from nanoparticle surface were established. Additionally, a systemic study of nanoparticles surface charge relationship of various aspects of drug delivery (e.g. intracellular payload release, cellular uptake, and tissue penetration) has been performed using fluorescein-conjugated model systems. Furthermore, the GSH- or light- mediated release, combining with the controlled interactions of biomolecules with surface functionalized nanoparticle scaffolds, can be further utilized to realize targeted delivery into cancer cells