PEGylated MXene@AgNP nanocomposite for targeted release of docetaxel to breast carcinoma

MXene pertains to the family of two-dimensional materials with excellent surface area, biocompatibility, and many possibilities for surface functionalization. Owing to this, a multifunctional MXene nanocomposite was developed for targeted drug delivery at tumor site as current treatment regimens show increased adverse effects and limited selectivity.

MAX phase titanium aluminum carbide (Ti₃AlC₂) was synthesized, which serves as the precursor for the production of Ti₃C₂T_X MXene. Additionally, green-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNP) were affixed onto the MXene's surface, forming the MXene@AgNP nanocomposite. This nanocomposite was further employed as a drug delivery carrier to deliver chemotherapeutic drug, docetaxel (DTX), linked covalently to the MXene@AgNP via polyethylene glycol (PEG), resulting in the final composition of MXene@AgNP@PEG@DTX.

The final nanocomposite exhibits both thermal and pH-responsive in vitro drug delivery capabilities, with maximum drug release of 60% at pH 5.4 after 48 hours. The IC₅₀ value for final nanocomposite was determined at 2.698 µg/mL, significantly lower than IC₅₀ value 9.630 µg/mL for DTX against breast carcinoma. Enhanced cellular uptake of the MXene@AgNP carrier was confirmed through cellular uptake studies.

This work broadens the scope for therapeutic approach toward cancer through the development of nanocomposite by providing a potent and biocompatible alternative.