A New Nano-Platform for Drug Release via Nanotubular Aluminum Oxide

Abstract

Nanotubular materials have many favorable properties for drug delivery. We present here a pioneering study of controlled release of a model drug, amoxicillin, from the internal nanopore structure of self-ordered, periodically spaced-apart aluminum oxide with an innovative, nanotubular geometry. This aluminum oxide nanotube geometry has not yet been revealed for biological applications, thus we have selected this oxide nanotube structure and demonstrated its ability as a drug carrier. Controlled, sustained release was achieved for over 5 weeks. The release kinetics from the nanotube layer was thoroughly characterized and it was determined that the amount of drug released was proportional to the square root of time. This type of controlled release and longevity from the nanotube layer has potential for therapeutic surface coatings on medical implants. Furthermore, this type of geometry has many features that are advantageous and biologically relevant for enhancing tissue biointegration.