Titanium-based metal-organic frameworks as pH-responsive drug delivery carriers of 5-Fluorouracil

Abstract

In this study, we synthesized two titanium-based metal-organic frameworks (Ti-MOFs), namely MIL-125 and MIL-125-NH2, known for their excellent biocompatibility, as potential carriers for the anti-cancer drug 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU). We conducted comprehensive examinations of their morphologies, particle size distributions using SEM, stability, permanent porosity, and in vitro drug loading and release behaviors. Both materials demonstrated significant advantages due to their excellent stability, large surface area, and nanoscale sizes, which resulted in a high capacity for loading 5-FU. Significantly, both MIL-125 and MIL-125-NH2 consistently displayed pH-responsive release of 5-FU. This result may not only help to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of 5-FU but is also expected to improve its targeting potential. Our current research suggests that Ti-MOFs hold great promise as carriers for 5-FU in cancer treatment, offering guidance for the design and development of new customized and responsive drug delivery system.