Hybrid mesoporous nanoparticles with highly integrated polydopamine for pH-responsive membrane permeation and drug delivery

By the synergy of surface amines/catechols, polydopamine (PDA)-based nanomaterials are appealing in inducing wet-adhesion and membrane permeabilization for efficient intracellular delivery of drugs, especially those with low membrane permeability. Herein, hybrid mesoporous silica nanoparticles with highly integrated PDA on the pore walls were developed using ionic liquid as an organic template. Small particle diameters (similar to 30-50 nm), high surface area (549 m(2) g(-1)), and abundant mesopores (similar to 5 nm), were achieved. Modification of arginine and pH-sensitive sheddable PEG was realized to construct a membrane-lytic surface and a protective coating, respectively. The nanocarriers can mediate efficient drug loading, sustained release, and cytosolic delivery of a model BCS Class III drug (cytarabine) after efficient lysosomal escape. Moreover, the intrinsic photothermal conversion property of PDA can enhance the cancer cell inhibition. The results show the potential of highly integrated PDA in porous nanocarriers for overcoming intracellular obstacles of drug delivery.