Redox-responsive mesoporous silica nanoparticles based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer for anti-cancer drug targeting and real-time monitoring

Abstract Redox-responsive colloidal mesoporous silica nanoparticles (CMS) drug delivery systems based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) was successfully designed for targeting and real-time monitoring in potential cancer therapy. FRET-CMS indicated the typical type IV isotherm with uniform distribution and wormhole arrangement of mesopores. In vitro release studies indicate the redox-sensitive drug release behaviors. Furthermore, the release of entrapped drugs in real time is monitored by the changed FRET signals of FRET-CMS, which is effectively controlled due to the eliminating FRET with the dissociation of FRET donor–acceptor pair. Fluorescent images of cellular uptake and cell viability test revealed that FRET-CMS enhanced significantly 6-MP accumulation in Hela cells with CD44 receptor over-expressed compared to MCF-7 cells due to the existence of hyaluronic acid and subsequently induced selective cytotoxicity to Hela cells. The obtained results illustrate that FRET-CMS may be a promising nanocarrier for drug delivery systems in cancer therapy. Graphic abstract