Abstract
Diatoms are single-cell algae encased in a cell wall (named frustule) composed of transparent, biogenic (or opaline) silica with intricate and strikingly regular patterns. Over the past 30 years, these microorganisms have proven to be a valuable replacement for synthetic silica that satisfies numerous pharmaceutical requirements for the realization of drug delivery vectors, biosensing supports and photonic crystals. It is not only the structural features of the diatoms, but also the possibility of chemically modifying the frustule that permits the relatively straightforward transformation of the biosilica into potential devices for biomedical applications. In this short review, we explore the applications of diatoms-derived biosilica in the drug delivery and biosensing fields. Specifically, we consider the use of diatoms for the targeted delivery of anticancer and antibiotic drugs and how the same microalgae are employed in the fabrications of biosensors whose analyte signal response is evaluated via fluorescence and surface-enhanced Raman scattering techniques. We limit our discussion to studies published in the last seven years, with the intention of minimizing possible redundancy with respect to previously published contributions.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
