Evaluation of the direct and indirect response of blood leukocytes to carbon nanotubes (CNTs)

Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) possess unique structural and functional properties and are readily internalized by various mammalian cells making them highly attractive as a tool for gene and drug delivery. However, prior to use 'in vivo' as carriers for therapeutics, their toxicity and potential to elicit an immune response needs to be understood. To evaluate the acute response of blood leukocytes to CNTs in vitro, we recreated two specific events: (a) A direct exposure event that may occur due to presence of CNTs in circulation and (b) Presentation of CNTs to blood leukocytes via antigen presenting cells. Results from this study demonstrate that ssDNA functionalized SWCNTs do not elicit an acute immune response from blood leukocytes through either direct or indirect interactions as verified by expression of early leukocyte activation markers.99