A highly versatile nanoplatform that couples mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) with an aerosol technology to achieve direct nanoscale delivery to the respiratory tract is described. This novel method can deposit MSN nanoparticles throughout the entire respiratory tract, including nasal, tracheobronchial and pulmonary regions using a water-based aerosol. This delivery method was successfully tested in mice by inhalation. The MSN nanoparticles used have the potential for carrying and delivering therapeutic agents to highly specific target sites of the respiratory tract. The approach provides a critical foundation for developing therapeutic treatment protocols for a wide range of diseases where aerosol delivery to the respiratory system would be desirable.

From the clinical editor

Delivery of drugs via the respiratory tract is an attractive route of administration. In this article, the authors described the design of mesoporous silica nanoparticles which could act as carriers for drugs. The underlying efficacy was successfully tested in a mouse model. This drug-carrier inhalation nanotechnology should potentially be useful in human clinical setting in the future.