Carbon Nanotubes Part Ii: A Remarkable Carrier for Drug and Gene Delivery Publisher Pubmed



Karimi M¹ ; Solati N² ; Ghasemi A³ ; Estiar MA⁴ ; Hashemkhani M² ; Kiani P² ; Mohamed E² ; Saeidi A² ; Taheri M² ; Avci P^{5, 6} ; Aref AR^{7, 8} ; Amiri M³ ; Baniasadi F³ ; Hamblin MR^{5, 6, 9}
Source: Expert Opinion on Drug Delivery Published:2015

Abstract

Introduction: Carbon nanotubes (CNT) have recently been studied as novel and versatile drug and gene delivery vehicles. When CNT are suitably functionalized, they can interact with various cell types and are taken up by endocytosis.Areas covered: Anti-cancer drugs cisplatin and doxorubicin have been delivered by CNT, as well as methotrexate, taxol and gemcitabine. The delivery of the antifungal compound amphotericin B and the oral administration of erythropoietin have both been assisted using CNT. Frequently, targeting moieties such as folic acid, epidermal growth factor or various antibodies are attached to the CNT-drug nanovehicle. Different kinds of functionalization (e.g., polycations) have been used to allow CNT to act as gene delivery vectors. Plasmid DNA, small interfering RNA and micro-RNA have all been delivered by CNT vehicles. Significant concerns are raised about the nanotoxicology of the CNT and their potentially damaging effects on the environment.Expert opinion: CNT-mediated drug delivery has been studied for over a decade, and both in vitro and in vivo studies have been reported. The future success of CNTs as vectors in vivo and in clinical application will depend on achievement of efficacious therapy with minimal adverse effects and avoidance of possible toxic and environmentally damaging effects. © 2015 Informa UK, Ltd.