Fluorescence and biological stabilization of phosphorus-functionalized mesoporous silica nanospheres modified with a bis(8-hydroxyquinoline) zinc complex

Abstract

Green-emitting phosphorus-functionalized mesoporous silica (PMPS) nanospheres were fabricated by modifying their surfaces with (8-hydroxyquinoline) zinc (Znq₂). A simulated body fluid soaking test and subsequent gas-adsorption measurements revealed that Znq₂-modification could dramatically suppress the biodegradation of the nanospheres. This study establishes Znq₂ as a novel and potential surface modifier of mesoporous silicas and demonstrates that effective surface design of the hosts will allow the exploitation of potential functionalities of the modifier.