Abstract: A nanoparticle including a polysiloxane base having an exterior surface and having a photosensitizer at least partly exposed at its exterior surface, said photosensitizer being secured to the exterior surface by loading the photosensitizer onto the surface after formation of the polysiloxane base of the nanoparticle. The nanoparticle may have tumor targeting moieties and may be post loaded with cyanine dye. The nanoparticle preferably includes post loaded moieties providing at least two of tumor specificity, photodynamic properties and imaging capabilities and the photosensitizer is tagged with a radioisotope. A method for preparation of the nanoparticle is also provided.

Abstract: Provided are methods and compositions for inhibiting expression of one or more target genes. The compositions contain RNA polynucleotides that can inhibit expression of a target gene via RNA interference (RNAi) electrostatically complexed with surface functionalized gold nanorods (GNRs). The RNA polynucleotides are not covalently bound to the surface functionalized GNRs. The method involves inhibiting expression of a target gene in an individual. The method is performed by administering to the individual an effective amount of a composition containing surface functionalized GNRs electrostatically complexed with RNA polynucleotides, such as siRNA, that can inhibit expression of the target gene via RNAi. The siRNA is not covalently bound to the surface functionalized GNRs.

Abstract: Provided are methods and compositions for inhibiting expression of one or more target genes. The compositions contain RNA polynucleotides that can inhibit expression of a target gene via RNA interference (RNAi) electrostatically complexed with surface functionalized gold nanorods (GNRs). The RNA polynucleotides are not covalently bound to the surface functionalized GNRs. The method involves inhibiting expression of a target gene in an individual. The method is performed by administering to the individual an effective amount of a composition containing surface functionalized GNRs electrostatically complexed with RNA polynucleotides, such as siRNA, that can inhibit expression of the target gene via RNAi. The siRNA is not covalently bound to the surface functionalized GNRs.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for photodynamic therapy. The composition comprises ceramic nanoparticles in which a photosensitive drug/dye is entrapped. The ceramic nanoparticles are made by formation of a micellar composition of the dye. The ceramic material is added to the micellar composition and the ceramic nanoparticles are precipitated by alkaline hydrolysis. The precipitated nanoparticles in which the photosensitive dye/drug is entrapped can be isolated by dialysis. The resulting drug doped nanoparticles are spherical, highly monodispersed, and stable in aqueous system. Irradiation with light of suitable wavelength of the photosensitizing drug entrapped inside nanoparticles resulted in generation of singlet oxygen, which was able to diffuse out through the pores of the ceramic matrix. The drug loaded ceramic nanoparticles of the present invention can be used as drug carriers for photodynamic therapy.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for photodynamic therapy. The composition comprises ceramic nanoparticles in which a photosensitive drug/dye is entrapped. The ceramic nanoparticles are made by formation of a micellar composition of the dye. The ceramic material is added to the micellar composition and the ceramic nanoparticles are precipitated by alkaline hydrolysis. The precipitated nanoparticles in which the photosensitive dye/drug is entrapped can be isolated by dialysis. The resulting drug doped nanoparticles are spherical, highly monodispersed, and stable in aqueous system. Irradiation with light of suitable wavelength of the photosensitizing drug entrapped inside nanoparticles resulted in generation of singlet oxygen, which was able to diffuse out through the pores of the ceramic matrix. The drug loaded ceramic nanoparticles of the present invention can be used as drug carriers for photodynamic therapy.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel nanosized particles termed as “nanoclinics” for therapeutic and/or diagnostic use. The particles have a core made of a therapeutic or diagnostic material surrounded by a shell. Further, the particles contain a targeting agent on the surface of the shell for specific recognition of targeted cells. A method is also provided for lysis of cells using DC magnetic field. Further, the present invention also provides a method for fabrication of nanoclinics that can target and lyse specific cells such as cancer cells.

Abstract: The invention includes compositions comprising substantially purified salivary glycoproteins and carbohydrate ligands thereof which are useful in methods for the treatment and prevention of HIV-1 infection. The invention also includes methods for the treatment and prevention of HIV-1 infection comprising contacting a composition of the invention with a human patient. Additionally, the invention includes antibodies and kits useful in the treatment and prevention of HIV-1 infection.