Confinement and Polarity Effects on the Peptide Packing Density on Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles

• DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.3c03513
• Publication Date: 2024-02-12T18:57:46Z
• Authors: Bastian Beitzinger; Roman Schmid; Christoph Jung; Kanishka Tiwary; Patrick Hermann; Timo Jacob; Mika Lindén
• Keywords: Polarity (international relations); Sphere packing; Silicon dioxide

The adsorption of cationic peptide JM21 onto different mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) from an aqueous solution was studied as a function pH. In agreement with the literature, highest loading degrees could be achieved at pH close to isoelectric point where peptide–peptide repulsion is minimum. However, mesopore size, geometry, and surface polarity all had influence on in terms both affinity maximum given This behavior largely explained by combination pH-dependent electrostatic interactions confinement effects. It demonstrated that hydrophobic enhance degree under conditions attraction absent case organosilica (MONs). lower concentration silanol groups for MON led level optimum compared all-silica particles. Finally, study confirmed protective role MSNs preserving biological activity JM#21 against enzymatic degradation, even large-pore MSNs, emphasizing their potential nanocarriers therapeutic peptides. By integrating experimental findings theoretical modeling, this research elucidates complex interplay factors peptide–silica interactions, providing vital insights optimizing stabilization biomedical applications.