Functionalized carbon nanotubes as transporters for antisense oligodeoxynucleotides

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Efficient DNA delivery systems are crucial for DNA-based therapeutics.
• Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) offer potential as nanocarriers.
• Functionalization is key to improving MWCNT properties for biological applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate hydroxyl-functionalized MWCNTs (MWCNT-f-OH) as a carrier for DNA therapeutics.
• To assess the stability, DNA adsorption, and release capabilities of MWCNT-f-OH.
• To investigate the biocompatibility and cellular uptake of MWCNT-f-OH.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of MWCNT-f-OH via 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition.
• Adsorption of carrier strand oligodeoxynucleotides (CS-ODNs) and hybridization with antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (AS-ODNs).
• Radionuclide labeling for quantifying ODN adsorption and release; cell viability assays (EJ28 cell line); cellular uptake studies.

Main Results:

• MWCNT-f-OH exhibited enhanced stability in aqueous dispersions.
• Successful adsorption and hybridization of AS-ODNs onto MWCNT-f-OH.
• AS-ODNs were released at 80 °C and under physiological conditions (pH 37 °C).
• MWCNT-f-OH showed minimal cytotoxicity to EJ28 bladder carcinoma cells and were internalized by them.

Conclusions:

• MWCNT-f-OH is a stable and effective nanocarrier for AS-ODNs.
• The developed system demonstrates controlled release of therapeutic DNA.
• MWCNT-f-OH holds promise for advancing DNA-based cancer therapeutics.