Long-lasting phosphorescence functionalization of mesoporous silica nanospheres by CaTiO3:Pr3+ for drug delivery

We found that mesoporous silica nanospheres (MSNs) could be functionalized with long-lasting phosphorescence by depositing a CaTiO3:Pr3+ layer on the particle surfaces. The as-synthesized MSNs@CaTiO3:Pr3+ could be used as a novel drug carrier which can be tracked in vivo. The phosphorescence intensity could be used as a new signal to monitor the extent of drug release.