Carbohydrate-modified Hydrosilylated Porous Silicon Nanoparticles via one-pot Passivation-Functionalization Chemical Strategy for Biomedical Applications

In recent decades, nanotechnology has emerged as a transformative strength within diagnostic and therapeutic sciences, heralding novel paradigms in diagnosis, treatment, and targeted oncological interventions. Compared to conventional chemotherapy, characterized by its non-selective eradication of proliferating cells and attendant harmful side effects, nanotechnological modalities promise a nuanced and precise approach to cancer management. Among nanotechnological methodologies, systems predicated upon porous silicon nanoparticles (PSiNPs) have emerged as promising due to their capacity for precise tumor cell targeting while concurrently mitigating off-target effects. However, antecedent approaches to PSiNPs functionalization have been burdened by inherent complexities, notably their incompatibility with thermolabile compounds. Our research sought to pioneer a streamlined and productive protocol for PSiNPs functionalization via hydrosilylation in response to these difficulties. This novel approach integrates mild temperature conditions and the judicious utilization of a Lewis acid catalyst, thereby circumventing the challenges associated with heat-sensitive molecules. Specifically, our focus was on the conjugation of PSiNPs with Allyl-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-glucopyranoside (Al-s), a carbohydrate moiety characterized by an allyl functional group. Empirical validation of our methodology, ascertained through rigorous thermogravimetric analysis, underscored its efficacy in conferring robust protection upon PSiNPs against degradation. Moreover, the salience of this innovative hydrosilylation protocol extends beyond mere technological refinement, heralding transformative prospects within the domain of brain-targeted drug delivery. Notably, our methodology holds promise in the selective targeting of brain cancer cells exhibiting overexpression of GLUT receptors, thereby engendering a paradigm shift towards bespoke and efficacious therapeutic interventions. In summation, the convergence of PSiNPs-based nanotechnology with our pioneering hydrosilylation protocol represents a seminal milestone in the annals of oncological therapeutics, heralding a future wherein tailored pharmacotherapeutic agents can be delivered with pinpoint accuracy to diseased tissues, thereby minimizing systemic toxicity and maximizing therapeutic efficacy.