Carbon nanotubes: A promising novel drug delivery system

Abstract

Background: CNT’s are nanomaterials that are one-dimensional structure, which are considered to be of the 2nd generation allotrope of carbon. They usually constitute pure carbon and carbon atoms are present in a repetitive manner in a hexagonal pattern and thus make up cylindrical tubes. CNT’s can be functionalized such that bio molecules can be attached on their surfaces by covalent or noncovalent linkages and the needle like shape of the CNT’s enable them to perforate cellular membranes and delivers the carried drug molecules to targeted sites. They have the ability to carry drugs to the specific site as they are hollow and much smaller than blood vessels.
Methods: Previously published articles relating carbon nanotubes as an effective drug delivery system have been collected and reviewed.
Observations: Some of the important properties of CNT that makes them eligible as a novel nanomaterial for potential drug delivery are their characteristic configuration, excellent functionalisation ability and dynamic surface modification properties. They have high elasticity which enhances the chances of intracellular drug delivery. CNT’s have emerged as an efficient drug delivery system in the field of medicine for targeted delivery of drug molecules to the specific site of action. The large inner volume of CNTs allows enclosing of both low and high molecular weight drugs. It also permits encapsulation of both hydrophilic as well as lipophillic drugs. They have exclusive characteristics like ability to absorb pathogenic molecules and heat conduction that would enhance their use in the medical field.