Silica-based nanoparticles for photodynamic therapy

Abstract: This chapter deals with the potential of silica-based nanoparticles for applications in PDT. Photosensitizers can be encapsulated or covalently attached. Synthesis of silica-based nanoparticles is relatively easy, leading to the elaboration of complex multifunctional nanoparticles that can present targeting units, a photoactivatable compound such as a photosensitizer as well as a chemical agent to allow the detection. These nanoparticles are perfect tools for multimodal theranostic approaches. Only the more recent papers are discussed in detail and a table combines all the publications concerning silica nanoparticles for photodynamic therapy applications.