Nano-graphene Oxide for Drug Delivery and Phototherapy

Abstract

Laser immunotherapy (LIT) was developed as an alternative to traditional cancer treatment options because it targets both the primary tumors and metastases. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have been used as a photosensitizing agent and drug delivery system; however, SWNTs may accumulate in the lungs and potentially in other organs. A search is underway for a nanoparticle that works both as a photosensitizer and a drug delivery vehicle and, more importantly, can also be expelled from the body safely. This study tests nano-graphene oxide (nGO) sheets used as a photosensitizing agent. The GO sheets were also synthesized with imiquimod, a known immunoadjuvant. Our results indicate that nano-graphene oxide, when functionalized with appropriate immunoadjuvant as well as other therapeutic agents, could be a useful tool in laser immunotherapy.