PUB097 Carbon Nanotubes for Efficient Mitochondrial Tumor Targeting

Abstract

Cancer is uncontrollable growth of cells which are devoid of apoptosis. We developed a novel strategy ie Ligand mediated tumor targeting via carrier systems. Multiwalled Carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used as it directly enters into the cell without passing through endo-lysosomes, large inner volume, distinct inner and outer surfaces & have ability to enter the cell by spontaneous mechanism. Thus, proposed work envisages Rhodamine-123 conjugated Paclitaxel loaded functionalized-CNTs to provide enhanced cell permeation in order to enhance mitochondrial availability of Paclitaxel. The raw MWCNT were procured and purified, oxidized & then conjugated with rhodamine-123 by carbodimide method. The MWCNT’s were characterized in-vitro for shape & size by Scanning(SEM) & Transmission Electron Microscopy(TEM), FTIR analysis, X-ray diffraction and zeta potential determined. Stability studies were performed at exaggerated conditions along with Hemolytic Toxicity Study. The Cell Cytotoxicity Study-MTT Assay was done using Hela cell lines. Mitochondrial localization was determined by CLSM study. The in-vivo part of the study comprised of determining the distribution of drug in various organs by fluorescence microscopy. The Rhodamine-123 conjugated MWCNTs were prepared and characterized. The CNTs showed high paclitaxel loading, sustained release, and excellent biocompatibility as evident by in-vitro drug release and low hemolytic toxicity. MTT assay against HeLa cell lines suggested the potential anticancer activity of the developed system. CLSM study suggested that mitochondrial specific localization of Rhodamine-123 conjugated MWCNTs in HeLa cells. Thus, Rhodamine-123 conjugated Paclitaxel loaded f-CNTs system have potential to provide an enhanced cell permeation and mitochondrial localization for effective tumour chemotherapy.