Exploring mesoporous silica microparticles in pharmaceutical sciences: Drug delivery and therapeutic insights

Abstract

Nanotechnology has revolutionised pharmaceutical sciences, with mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) extensively studied as drug carriers. However, their clinical translation is hindered by challenges such as toxicity, tumour accumulation, and uncontrolled endocytosis. Mesoporous silica microparticles (MSMs) have emerged as a safer alternative, offering enhanced drug loading, controlled release, and improved formulation properties. MSMs facilitate protein delivery, solubility enhancement, and bioavailability improvement through pore size modulation, amorphous drug loading, and surface functionalisation. Additionally, they aid in overcoming multi-drug resistance and enable organ-specific targeting using aptamers or magnetic nanoparticles. Beyond drug delivery, MSMs enhance pharmaceutical formulations, with commercial products such as SYLOID®, Aeroperl®, and Neusilin® improving tablet performance and drug stability. Their role in controlled release systems further underscores their pharmaceutical potential. As research advances, MSMs offer promising strategies for precision medicine and optimised drug delivery, reinforcing their potential for future clinical applications.