D-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate functionalized nanographene oxide for cancer therapy

Aim: To evaluate the therapeutic capacity of D-alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 succinate (TPGS)-functionalized nanographene oxide (nGO) in breast cancer cells. Methods: TPGS-functionalized nGO-based materials were obtained through two different approaches: a simple sonication method and a one-pot hydrothermal treatment. Results: TPGS coating successfully improved the stability of the nGO-based materials. The nanomaterials that underwent the hydrothermal procedure generated a 1.4- to 1.6- fold higher temperature variation under near infrared laser irradiation than those prepared only by sonication. In vitro, the TPGS/nGO derivatives reduced breast cancer cells' viability and had an insignificant effect on healthy cells. Furthermore, the combined application of TPGS/nGO derivatives and near infrared light generated an improved therapeutic effect. Conclusion: TPGS/nGO derivatives are promising materials for breast cancer phototherapy.