ZIF-8 based microspheres with ordered mesopores and dual responsive surfaces

Zeolite imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) is considered to be a potential drug delivery system for anticancer drugs. In order to address such challenges as its dosage limitation, toxicity, intelligent responsiveness, a ZIF-8 based biocompatible porous material of micron-size (ZIF-8 microphere/DOX@ PCM-PDA composites, ZMDPCs) is designed with ordered topology and dual responsive surfaces. The large specific surface area and hierarchical pores endow ZMDPCs with high loading capacity (1 mg could carry 3.8 mg DOX). The biocompatibility is enhanced by polydopamine (PDA) decoration. Moreover, PDA could be a photothermal converting material to trigger phase transition of PCM (as a thermal response valve) through NIR irradiation. Drug release could be controllable by stimulation of NIR or pH. With such biocompatibility, degradability and responsive surfaces, ZMDPCs show promising potential as a drug delivery vehicle.