|
Novel multilayer films and particles for targeted drug delivery, localized therapeutic treatment, and detection and diagnosis require unique physical properties such as nano-porosity, nanometer size and thickness control, and/or tailored surface functionalities while being non-cytotoxic and having colloidal and pH stability. Thin film structures composed of alternating layers exhibit many of the desired electrical, chemical, and mechanical properties and can be improved or modified by varying the materials, layer thickness, topography of the interfaces, and the crystalline structure to incorporate multi-functionality into a single device. The subsequent comminuting of these films into high aspect ratio flakes/ platelets provides a platform for administrating drugs in controlled dosages to targeted areas. A proof of concept manufacturing process has been developed to deposit multilayer coatings with encapsulating inorganic layers on nano-sized platelets that can avoid filtration in the circulatory system, enter cells selectively, and release the drug cargo by bio-dissolution of the inorganic layers. In addition, the nanoplatelets can be coated or associated with materials that absorb near-IR radiation or microwaves that can be used to heat the particle or that respond to local pH changes or molecules to enhance drug release in-situ. The design considerations, fabrication process, and film/platelet properties for cancer therapies and bone healing will be discussed. |