A comparative study on non-covalent functionalization of carbon nanotubes by chitosan and its derivatives for delivery of doxorubicin

Three targeting drug delivery systems were formulated by functionalization of single-walled carbon nanotubes using chitosan and its derivatives (Palmitoyl Chitosan and Carboxymethyl Chitosan) for delivery of doxorubicin, an anti-cancer drug. Loading efficiency was higher than 75% for all carriers. The systems were stable under neutral pH, while effectively released drug at reduced pH. The drug loading efficiency and the release rate were revealed to be dependent on the type of applied polymer and could be adjusted to a desired rate by changing the hydrophobic/hydrophilic substitution degree. Folic acid was attached and cytotoxicity of system was compared with free drug. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.