Surface Modification of Halloysite Nanotubes Capable of Encapsulating a Secondary Therapeutic

Abstract

A number of nanoparticles are being investigated as carriers for chemotherapeutics. Unfortunately, these particles are limited by their ability to only transport one drug into the body. The goal of this project was to devise a method for facilitating the addition of a secondary drug. Layer-by-Layer self-assembly using polyelectrolytes encased a secondary drug to the surface of halloysite clay nanotubes. This system is pH dependent that prevents the leakage of the drug until a specific pH is experienced. Additionally, this method can be used on a variety of nanoparticles. By encasing a secondary onto the surface, it is believed that drug resistance in cancerous cells can be overcome by delivering a one-two drug combination.