Abstract: Provided are nanoparticles surface functionalized with PEG groups and having one or more photosensitizer group. The PEG groups may be functionalized. The nanoparticles may also include therapeutic groups and/or targeting groups. The nanoparticles may be made by hydrolysis of a silica precursor and, optionally, an alumina precursor, in various aqueous reaction mediums. The nanoparticles may be used in photodynamic therapy methods. The methods may also include imaging of an individual.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods of analyzing and/or purifying inorganic nanoparticles that may be functionalized with one or more dye group. Analyzing and/or purifying the inorganic nanoparticles includes utilizing liquid chromatography, such as, for example, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Methods of the present disclosure may be used to determine the location of one or more dye groups on and/or in the inorganic nanoparticles. The present disclosure also provides methods of making inorganic nanoparticles and compositions of inorganic nanoparticles.

Abstract: Provided are sulfur- or heavy atom-containing silica or aluminosilica nanoparticles. A nanoparticle can have at least one dye molecule covalently bonded to the silica or aluminosilica matrix of the silica or aluminosilica nanoparticle, respectively. The nanoparticle may have a size, such as, for example, a longest dimension, of less than 10 nm. The silica or aluminosilica nanoparticle can be used in methods such as, for example, imaging methods and photodynamic therapy methods. The imaging methods can provide sub-diffraction limit resolution.