Understanding of surface chemistry of silica-based nanomaterials contributes to the design of safe and efficacious nanomedicine

Silica exhibits exceptional properties for biomedical applications, including drug delivery. Although bulk silica is generally safe, the distinct characteristics of nanosized silica necessitate further inves-tigation. Varying manufacturing conditions generate different silica surfaces and chemically distinct silanol groups. Recent advance-ments have demonstrated the utility of experimental and in silico approaches in characterizing silica surface properties that deter-mine the fate and outcomes of nano silica/bio interactions.