Loading and release of doxorubicin with magnetic nanotubes

Abstract

In this work, we study magnetic nanotubes (MNTs) as drug carriers to control the loading and release of doxorubicin (Dox). The inner surfaces of MNTs where Dox molecules are stored are modified with C18-silane and pyridine-silane. By tuning the interaction between the drug molecules and inner surfaces of MNTs via pH, Dox can be effectively encapsulated at pH 7.2 and released at pH 4.5. The successful loading of Dox is confirmed with confocal microscopy studies. The release profiles of Dox from modified MNTs are detected by spectrofluorophotometry, with bare MNTs as control. With proper modifications, MNTs can be used for pH-dependent, controlled release of drug molecules.