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Methotrexate intercalated layered double hydroxides with different particle sizes: structural study and controlled
Xiao-Qing Zhang1, Mei-Gui Zeng1, Shu-Ping Li1
1Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Biofunctional Material, College of Chemistry and Material Science, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
Colloids and Surfaces. B, Biointerfaces
|March 18, 2014
Summary
Controlling particle size of methotrexate intercalated layered double hydroxides (MTX/LDHs) nanohybrids impacts drug release and efficacy. Larger MTX/LDHs particles demonstrate prolonged release and enhanced tumor suppression, offering improved therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Drug Delivery
Background:
- Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are versatile nanomaterials with potential in drug delivery.
- Methotrexate (MTX) is a chemotherapy drug with limitations in conventional delivery systems.
- Controlling nanohybrid properties is crucial for optimizing therapeutic outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize methotrexate intercalated layered double hydroxides (MTX/LDHs) nanohybrids with tunable particle sizes.
- To investigate the influence of particle size on the physicochemical properties and in vitro release of MTX/LDHs.
- To evaluate the impact of particle size on the anti-tumor efficacy of MTX/LDHs.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of MTX/LDHs nanohybrids using a coprecipitation method with a water-polyethylene glycol solvent system.
- Systematic investigation of hydrothermal treatment conditions (time, temperature) to control particle size (70-300 nm).
- Characterization using elemental analysis (C/H/N, ICP), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).
Main Results:
- Particle size of MTX/LDHs was precisely controlled by adjusting hydrothermal treatment parameters.
- Successful intercalation of MTX anions into LDHs was confirmed by XRD and FTIR.
- Larger MTX/LDHs particles exhibited increased crystallinity, enhanced thermal stability, prolonged in vitro drug release, and superior tumor cell suppression.
- Nanohybrid composition remained unaffected by hydrothermal treatments.
Conclusions:
- Particle size is a critical factor influencing the performance of MTX/LDHs nanohybrids.
- Larger MTX/LDHs particles offer advantages in sustained drug release and improved anti-cancer efficacy.
- This study provides a foundation for developing size-controlled MTX/LDHs for enhanced cancer therapy.
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