Silicon-based hybrid luminescent/magnetic porous nanoparticles for biomedical applications

Abstract

Silicon-based porous nanoparticles showing at the same time intense visible luminescence and magnetic response were fabricated. The hybrid luminescent/magnetic nanoparticles (hLMNPs) were fabricated by the electrodeposition of cobalt and iron into nanostructured porous silicon. These nanoparticles were subsequently functionalized and internalized into cells. The hybrid behavior of the hLMNPs is a relevant feature for the development of research tools as nontoxic cellular tracker for progenitor cells and consequently able to be used in many strategies of cellular therapy. Additionally, the hLMNPs can be functionalized with various biomolecules that will endow them with new functionalities.