Carbon nanotube-coupled cell adhesion peptides are non-immunogenic: a promising step toward new biomedical devices

Carbon nanotubes functionalized with cell adhesion peptides can be considered as novel, promising candidates for the development of advanced drug delivery systems or for designing new generation of self-assembling nerve 'bridges'. An important step toward the integration of these types of conjugates in living bodies is the assessment of their impact on the immune system. In this direction, an integrin-derived peptide has been covalently conjugated to carbon nanotubes. Following intraperitoneal administration, peptide-carbon nanotubes do not trigger an anti-peptide antibody production. Demonstration of the immune neutrality of peptide-carbon nanotubes reinforces their potential use as substrates for neuronal regeneration in vivo.