Discussion
The response-controlled release of DEX in the intrapulmonary microenvironment can reduce normal cell damage, which can effectively avoid the side effects of nano-drugs in anti-inflammatory application. Meanwhile, the multi-wavelength of UCNPs endowed nano-drugs with the fluorescence emission imaging capacity in an intrapulmonary microenvironment, providing precise guidance for LIRI.
Methods
Herein, we developed upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) coated with photosensitizer/capping agent/fluorescent probe-modified mesoporous silica (UCNPs@mSiO2[DEX]-Py/β-CD/FITC, USDPFs) for precise DEX release synergistic LIRI comprehensive therapy. The UCNPs were designed by covering an inert YOF:Yb shell on the YOF:Yb, Tm core to achieve high-intensity blue and red upconversion emission upon Near-Infrared (NIR) laser irradiation.
Results
Under suitable compatibility conditions, the molecular structure of photosensitizer can be damaged along with capping agent shedding, which endowed USDPFs with an outstanding capability to carry out DEX release controlling and fluorescent indicator targeting. Furthermore, the hybrid encapsulating of DEX significantly increased utilization of nano-drugs, improving the water solubility and bioavailability, which was conducive to developing the anti-inflammatory performance of USDPFs in the complex clinical environment.