Physicochemically functionalized carbon nanohorns for multi-dimensional cancer elimination

We have developed multi-componential nanomaterials that are based on folic acid (FA) and polyethylenimine-functionalized carbon nanohorn conjugates that encapsulate magnetite nanoparticles. The nanoconjugates were characterized using a variety of experimental setups, including dynamic light scattering, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, and ultraviolet-visible-near-infrared (UV-Vis-NIR) spectroscopy. An NIR laser and a radio frequency-induction heating system were used to evaluate the heat-generating capability of the nanoconjugates. Aqueous solutions containing the nanoconjugates exhibited a significant increase in temperature after laser irradiation and/or radio frequency induction compared with controls. The intercellular distribution of the nanoconjugates was quantitatively analyzed using UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy with two cell lines: human epidermal carcinoma (KB) and human embryonic (FHs173We) cells. The interaction between the FA-modified nanoconjugates and KB cells was enhanced through overexpression of FA receptors on the surface of the KB cells. A stronger interaction between the nanoconjugates and KB cells was observed in the presence of a magnet. Furthermore, laser- and/or radio frequency-induced nanoconjugates in combination with external magnetic application reduced the viability of KB cells. Therefore, the present study will open a new direction for the development of multi-dimensional cancer therapy.