Fullerenes in biomedicine

Area of Science:

• Nanomedicine
• Biotechnology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Fullerene C(60) and its derivatives have garnered increasing research interest over the past decade.
• These carbon molecules are central to the development of nanotechnology and nanomedicine.
• Functionalized fullerenes are emerging as key components in nanobiotechnology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize recent findings on the biological activity and applications of functionalized fullerenes.
• To present in vitro and in vivo study results for fullerenol C(60)(OH)(24).
• To highlight the potential of fullerenes in therapeutic and protective applications.

Main Methods:

• In vitro and in vivo experimental studies.
• Assessment of antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities.
• Cytotoxicity assays against human tumor cell lines.
• Evaluation of protective effects against cytotoxic drugs and irradiation.
• Analysis of cell cycle and apoptosis.
• In vivo radioprotective and cardioprotective studies.

Main Results:

• Fullerenol C(60)(OH)(24) demonstrated potent antioxidant and free radical scavenging capabilities.
• The compound exhibited protective effects against various cytotoxic agents and irradiation.
• Studies indicated significant in vivo radioprotective and cardioprotective effects.
• Fullerenol C(60)(OH)(24) influenced cell cycle progression and apoptosis.

Conclusions:

• Functionalized fullerenes, particularly fullerenol C(60)(OH)(24), possess significant biological activities.
• These findings support the potential of fullerenes in nanomedicine and nanobiotechnology applications.
• Fullerenes offer promising avenues for therapeutic interventions and protective strategies.