Diatom Silica for Biomedical Applications: Recent Progress and Advances. Issue 19 (17th August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Maher, Shaheer; Kumeria, Tushar; Aw, Moom Sin; Losic, Dusan
• Is Part Of: Advanced healthcare materials. Volume 7:Issue 19(2018)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2018-08-17
• Subjects: DE frustules -- diatom silica -- diatomaceous earth -- diatoms -- drug delivery; Biomedical materials -- Periodicals; 610.28
• DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201800552
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2192-2640

Abstract

Abstract: Diatoms are unicellular photosynthetic algae enclosed in porous 3D nanopatterned silica enclosures called "frustules." The diatom frustules are made from biosilica self‐assembled into intricate porous shells that feature unique properties including high specific surface area, biocompatibility, tailorable surface chemistry, thermal stability, and high mechanical and chemical resistance. The ability to cultivate diatoms in artificial environments and their abundant availability of diatom frustules as mineable fossilized mineral deposits (diatomite or diatomaceous earth; DE) make diatom silica a promising natural alternative to synthetic porous silica for a broad range of biomedical, environmental, agricultural, and energy applications. This review article provides a comprehensive and current account of the use of natural DE silica materials in biomedical applications focused mainly on drug delivery with some highlights on biosensing, tissue engineering, and clotting agents. The article also covers some basic physical and chemical aspects of DE material such as purification, surface chemical functionalization, biocompatibility, and cellular uptake that are critical for the development of an efficient drug carrier. Abstract : Diatoms are unicellular algae enclosed in silica frustules, featuring unique properties including hollow porous 3D structure, high surface area, biocompatibility, and tailorable surface chemistry. This article presents the most recent biomedical applications including drug delivery and haemorrhage control. The article covers the basic surface chemical functionalization for diatoms that are essential for development of efficient drug carriers.