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Carbon Nanotube as a Tool for Fighting Cancer
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.
Insights
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) show promise for cancer treatment. Their unique properties make them suitable as nanocarriers for drug delivery and as immunomodulatory agents, offering new therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Oncology
Background:
- Cancer remains a leading cause of global mortality, with high rates of relapse and metastasis.
- Innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are crucial for effective cancer management.
- Nanomaterials offer a promising avenue for advancing cancer treatment modalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential applications of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in cancer therapy.
- To highlight the physicochemical properties of CNTs relevant to biomedical applications.
- To discuss the use of CNTs as nanocarriers and immunomodulatory agents in oncology.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on carbon nanotubes in biomedical applications.
- Analysis of the synthesis and structural characteristics of CNTs.
- Evaluation of research demonstrating CNTs' efficacy in drug delivery and immunomodulation.
Main Results:
- Carbon nanotubes possess unique physicochemical properties, including high tensile strength and conductivity.
- CNTs have demonstrated potential as effective nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery.
- Evidence supports the use of CNTs as immunomodulatory materials for cancer treatment.
Conclusions:
- Carbon nanotubes are versatile nanomaterials with significant potential in cancer therapy.
- Their application as nanocarriers and immunomodulatory agents warrants further investigation.
- CNTs could play a vital role in developing next-generation cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.
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