Carbon Nanotube as a Tool for Fighting Cancer

Bioconjug Chem. 2018 Mar 21;29(3):709-718. doi: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.7b00563. Epub 2017 Nov 7.

Abstract

In 2015, cancer was the cause of almost 22% of deaths worldwide. The high frequency of relapsing diseases and metastasis requires the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and the use of nanomaterials is a promising tool for fighting cancer. Among the more extensively studied nanomaterials are carbon nanotubes (CNTs), synthesized as graphene sheets, whose spiral shape is varied in length and thickness. Their physicochemical features, such as the resistance to tension, and thermal and electrical conductivity, allow their application in several fields. In this review, we show evidence supporting the applicability of CNTs in biomedical practice as nanocarriers for drugs and immunomodulatory material, emphasizing their potential for use in cancer treatment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Drug Carriers / adverse effects
  • Drug Carriers / chemistry*
  • Humans
  • Immunity
  • Immunologic Factors / administration & dosage*
  • Immunologic Factors / therapeutic use
  • Immunomodulation
  • Nanomedicine / methods*
  • Nanotubes, Carbon / adverse effects
  • Nanotubes, Carbon / chemistry*
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Neoplasms / immunology
  • Neoplasms / therapy*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Drug Carriers
  • Immunologic Factors
  • Nanotubes, Carbon