Researchers at the North California State University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and China Pharmaceutical University (CPU) developed a graphene-based drug delivery system for two anti-cancer drugs to cancer cells.
The technique uses graphene strips to deliver the drugs, with each drug targeting the distinct part of the cell where it will be most effective. The technique was found to be very efficient (in laboratory conditions) and outperform either drug in isolation.
The researchers attached two drugs (TRAIL and doxorubicin (Dox)) onto graphene strips. The drug-laden strips manage to travel through the bloodstream and penetrate the tumors. The scientists are now trying to secure funding for additional trials to further explore this innovative technique.
Chinese researchers already examined how graphene oxide can be used as an anti-cancer drug carrier.