Nanoparticles are increasingly being used in the biomedical field. Rendering them biodegradable should help them clear from the organism after they complete their function.
Mesoporous silica nanoparticles exhibit great potential as theranostic agents. However, their clinical translation is impeded by the lack of controlled and complete biodegradability. Therefore, the design of nanoparticle-based tools should involve self-degradation into products that can be cleared by the kidneys.
Further details: Biodegradable nanoparticles