PEG-conjugated single-walled carbon nanotubes enhance the cellular uptake of Coenzyme Q10: in vitro evaluation and mechanism study

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has a wide range of physiological functions and therapeutic value. However, its biomedical application as health product or drug is limited by insolubility low bioavailability. Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have attracted great interest for agent delivery due to their unique properties. In this study, the pristine SWCNTs are purified with different oxidizing acid, resulting shortened CNTs (CNTs-COOH) conjugated poly-(ethylene glycol) (PEG) groups. Afterwards, CoQ10 loaded carriers. carriers systematically characterized evaluated in terms loading, vitro release, cytotoxicity, cellular uptake. The results reveal that sizes (length) CNTs-COOH CNTs-PEG 253.2 328.7 nm, respectively, they high loading capacity cytotoxicity toward Caco-2 cells. comparison CNTs-COOH, exhibited better sustained-release property CoQ10. Also, can be effectively delivered into cells enhanced uptake efficiency over time. Further study mechanism illustrate internalized through broader more efficient entry routes, including direct penetration, clathrin-mediated endocytosis macropinocytosis pathway. summary, PEG-conjugated may used novel nanocarriers, findings will contribute rational design multifunctional vehicles