Chitosan-graphene quantum dot-based molecular imprinted polymer for oxaliplatin release.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) offer durability, stability, and selectivity for drug delivery applications.
• Chitosan (CS) and graphene quantum dots (GQDs) provide a biocompatible matrix for drug adsorption and controlled release.
• Oxaliplatin (OXAL) is a key anticancer drug requiring effective delivery systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a biocompatible MIP system using CS and GQDs for oxaliplatin (OXAL) adsorption and controlled delivery.
• To evaluate the system's drug loading capacity, release kinetics, and selectivity.
• To assess the potential of the developed MIP for cancer treatment applications.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of MIPs and non-imprinted polymers (NIPs) using CS, GQDs, and OXAL as a template.
• Characterization of the materials using FTIR, XRD, FESEM, and TGA.
• Optimization of pH for drug adsorption, followed by kinetic, isotherm, and selectivity studies, and in vitro drug release evaluations.

Main Results:

• Optimal drug binding capacity was achieved at pH 6.5.
• Adsorption data best fit the Lagergren-first-order kinetic model and Langmuir isotherm, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 17.15 mg g⁻¹.
• The MIP demonstrated significant selectivity for OXAL (imprinting factor of 2.88) and controlled release at pH 1.2 (100% release in 28 h).

Conclusions:

• The CS-GQD based MIP system effectively adsorbs and provides controlled release of oxaliplatin.
• The developed system exhibits high selectivity and promising characteristics for targeted cancer therapy.
• This drug delivery system holds potential for improving the efficacy of oxaliplatin-based cancer treatments.