Formulation and In-vitro evaluation of Folic acid conjugated Multiwalled carbon nanotubes for the targeting of cancer

Abstract

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, necessitating the development of targeted and efficient drug delivery systems. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have emerged as promising nanocarriers due to their high surface area, chemical stability, and potential for functionalization. This study aims to formulate and evaluate folic acid-conjugated MWCNTs (FA-MWCNTs) for targeted cancer therapy. Folic acid, a high-affinity ligand for folate receptors overexpressed on many cancer cells, was conjugated to MWCNTs to enhance site-specific drug delivery while minimizing off-target effects.
The MWCNTs were functionalized with carboxyl groups and subsequently conjugated with folic acid using a covalent coupling method. The conjugation was confirmed through Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, x ray diffraction (XRD), and raman spectroscopy. The drug-loading capacity of the FA-MWCNTs was evaluated using a model chemotherapeutic agent, demonstrating significant encapsulation efficiency. In-vitro cytotoxicity studies were performed on folate receptor-positive and receptor-negative cancer cell lines to assess the targeting efficiency. Results revealed that FA-MWCNTs exhibited enhanced cellular uptake and selective toxicity towards folate receptor-positive cancer cells compared to non-targeted MWCNTs.
Additionally, the drug release profile indicated a sustained release mechanism, ensuring prolonged therapeutic effects. The findings highlight the potential of FA-MWCNTs as a targeted drug delivery system with promising applications in cancer therapy. Further in-vivo studies are recommended to evaluate the pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and safety of this novel formulation for clinical translation.
the way for its integration into clinical workflows.