pH-responsive nanosized metal organic framework-graphene oxide composite for a controlled drug release

Abstract

In pursuit of an effective controlled-release drug delivery system, the development of a suitable drug carrier is crucial. Among various materials, the combination of graphene oxide (GO) and metal-organic framework (MOF) holds promise. While GO offers good water dispersibility and oxygen-containing functional groups, its drug-loading capacity is insufficient. Conversely, MOF possesses tunable pore size and high drug-loading capacity but suffers from low water solubility and instability in bodily fluid which limits controlled drug release. To address these challenges, the synergistic potential of GO and MOF is explored. Here, we present a novel method involving hydrothermal synthesis and ball milling to create a nano-sized MOF and GO composite, termed nanoMOF-GO, as a drug carrier. Piperine (PI), a hydrophobic drug, was chosen for encapsulation, and its loading capacity and pH-responsive release were evaluated. Our results demonstrate enhanced drug loading due to the electrostatic interaction of nanoMOF and GO, forming new pores and binding sites. Controlled release of PI was achieved at pH 5.5, with minimal release observed when using the MOF alone. Furthermore, the inclusion of GO suppressed premature release from nanoMOF in the neutral condition. Overall, this study highlights the potential of the nanoMOF-GO composite as a promising nanocarrier for drug delivery applications.