Injectable Multistage Nanovectors for Enhancing Imaging Contrast and Directed Therapy

Abstract

Nanovectors are powerful tools for the systemic delivery of therapeutic and imaging agents in oncology. We have recently introduced multistage nanovectors {(MSV),} designed to overcome sequential biological barriers. The first stage, comprised of porous silicon microparticles, targets tumor-associated endothelium. Once arrested at the disease site, second-stage nanoparticles carrying the therapeutic and imaging agents are released into the tumor microenvironment by time-dependent degradation of the silicon carrier. Particles–cell interactions and degradation of {MSV} can be controlled by means of particle surface modifications. In this chapter, we will describe studies related to the {MSV,} focusing on fabrication, intracellular multisite trafficking, advanced therapeutic systems, and contrast agents.