Nanotechnology Insights & Innovations

How the infinitely small revolutionizes the scientific world AcZon proprietary core-shell silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) represent a novel class of probes for biological applications. SiNPs are spherical and their diameter varies between 10 and 70 nm; they are made up of two structural compartments: the core and the shell. During the synthetic procedure, the chemical-physical characteristics of the SiNPs can be personalized according to the intended use. They can be modified, both internally (core) and externally (shell) in step with customer requirements. The nanoparticle itself acts as a shield which protects the molecule hosted in the inner part. As a result, all the molecules included in the nanoparticle core are not affected by external agents as pH and even by continuous light irradiation. Thanks to the spherical shape of nanoparticles and the consequent elevated surface/volume ratio, more active molecules (such as enzymes, drugs, chelating agents, etc) can be conjugated to a single targeting molecule ensuring a consistent effect enhancement.

The nanoparticle itself acts as a shield which protects the molecule hosted in the inner part. As a result, all the molecules included in the nanoparticle core are not affected by external agents as pH and even by continuous light irradiation. Thanks to the spherical shape of nanoparticles and the consequent elevated surface/volume ratio, more active molecules (such as enzymes, drugs, chelating agents, etc) can be conjugated to a single targeting molecule assuring a consistent effect enhancement.