Derivation of an anti-cancer drug nanocarrier using a malonic acid-based deep eutectic solvent as a functionalization agent

Abstract

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are novel ‘green’ solvents that have recently gained considerable interest from diverse sectors of the scientific community. They are considered biocompatible, chemically stable, biodegradable, low-volatility, and non-flammable. In addition, the physicochemical properties of DESs are highly tunable and can be customized to meet the needs of a particular mission, including for its novel application in drug delivery systems. Here, graphene functionalized with the DES choline chloride:malonic acid was investigated for anti-cancer activity after loading with the drug doxorubicin. The DES-functionalized graphene demonstrated high drug loading efficiency and exhibited destructive effects against cancerous cells. Real-time cell growth analysis confirmed its cytotoxicity against cancerous cells over time. All told, the combination of choline chloride and malonic acid shows great promise as a green functionalizing agent for a nano-drug carrier, owing to its lower cytotoxicity, higher doxorubicin loading capacity, and inhibition of cancer cell growth profile.