A l-glutamate-responsive delivery system based on enzyme-controlled self-immolative arylboronate-gated nanoparticles

Abstract

We report herein a L-glutamate (L-Glu)-responsive delivery system. It consists of Janus Au–mesoporous silica (MS) nanoparticles functionalized with L-glutamate oxidase on the Au face and with self-immolative arylboronate derivatives as caps on the MS face. The MS face is additionally loaded with a cargo. The delivery paradigm is based on the recognition of L-Glu by the enzyme and the subsequent formation of H₂O₂, which induces the cleavage of the self-immolative gate and the uncapping of the pores. Given the importance of L-Glu as a key neurotransmitter, we hope that these findings will help in designing new therapeutic strategies for nervous system diseases.