Functionalization degree of SBA-15 as key factor to modulate sodium alendronate dosage

It is of great interest the design of materials able to adjust the drug amount to the clinical needs, in such a way that the dosage can be controlled as adsorption and release are modulated. The organic modification of the surface of silica-based ordered mesoporous materials has been found as key factor to effectively control the drug dosage. A range of amine-functionalization degrees led to diverse adsorption rates of sodium alendronate, and to different drug release. Taking into account that ordered mesoporous materials have shown to be ceramics with potential bone regeneration applications, these systems could be starting materials for the further design of scaffolds for bone tissue engineering with the added value of releasing sodium alendronate, a drug used for the treatment of osteoporosis. (C) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.