%0 Journal Article
%T Synergistic photothermal ablative effects of functionalizing carbon nanotubes with a POSS-PCU nanocomposite polymer
%A Tan Aaron
%A Madani Seyed
%A Rajadas Jayakumar
%A Pastorin Giorgia
%J Journal of Nanobiotechnology
%D 2012
%I BioMed Central
%R 10.1186/1477-3155-10-34
%X Background The application of nanotechnology in biology and medicine represents a significant paradigm shift in the approach to the treatment of cancer. Evidence suggests that when exposed to near-infrared radiation (NIR), carbon nanotubes (CNTs) dissipate a substantial amount of heat energy. We have developed a novel nanocomposite polymer, polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane poly (carbonate-urea) urethane (POSS-PCU). POSS-PCU displays excellent biocompatibility and has been used in making artificial organs as well as protective coatings for medical devices. Results Functionalizing (or ¡°coating¡±) CNTs with POSS-PCU confers biocompatibility and increase the amount of heat energy generated, by enhancing dispersion. Here we demonstrate that POSS-PCU-functionalized multi-walled CNTs (MWNTs) act synergistically together when exposed to NIR to thermally ablate cancer cells. Conclusion Given that POSS-PCU has already been used in human in first-in-man studies as trachea, lacrimal duct, bypass graft and other organs, our long-term goal is to take POSS-PCU coated CNTs to clinical studies to address the treatment of cancer by optimizing its therapeutic index and increasing its specificity via antibody conjugation.
%K Carbon nanotubes
%K POSS-PCU
%K Thermal ablation
%K Nanotechnology
%K Nanocomposite polymer
%K Colorectal cancer
%U http://www.jnanobiotechnology.com/content/10/1/34