‘Communication’ between abiotic nanoscale chemical systems is an almost-unexplored field with enormous potential. Here we show the design and preparation of a chemical communication system based on enzyme-powered Janus nanoparticles, which mimics an interactive model of communication. Cargo delivery from one nanoparticle is governed by the biunivocal communication with another nanoparticle, which involves two enzymatic processes and the interchange of chemical messengers. The conceptual idea of establishing communication between nanodevices opens the opportunity to develop complex nanoscale systems capable of sharing information and cooperating.

Designer particles that are embued with nano-machinery for autonomous motion have great potential for biomedical applications; however, their development is highly demanding with respect to the biodegradability/compatibility. Previously, biodegradable propulsive machinery based on enzymes has been presented. However, enzymes are highly susceptible to proteolysis and deactivation in biological milieu. Biodegradable hybrid nanomotors, powered by catalytic inorganic nanoparticles, provide a proteolytically stable alternative to those based upon enzymes. Herein, we describe the assembly of hybrid biodegradable nanomotors capable of transducing chemical energy into motion. Such nanomotors are constructed through a process of compartmentalized synthesis of inorganic MnO2 nanoparticles (MnPs) within the cavity of organic stomatocytes. We show that the nanomotors remain active in cellular environments and do not compromise cell viability. Effective tumor penetration of hybrid nanomotors is also demonstrated in proof-of-principle experiments. Overall, this work represents a new prospect for engineering nanomotors able to retain their functionality within biological context.

This review describes examples of capped mesoporous silica materials that use enzymes as external triggers or functional components of the gating ensemble.

Here we report functional stimulus-responsive nanomotors based on Janus Au–mesoporous silica nanoparticles capable of self-propelling via the biocatalytic conversion of chemical fuel, that read information from the environment (the presence of glutathione) and accordingly deliver a cargo.