Nanotubes for cancer therapy and diagnostics

Abstract

The present invention provides a novel approach to cancer therapy and diagnostics that utilizes nanotubes and other similar nanostructures as both an indirect source of radiation therapy (BNCT), and as delivery vehicles for other types of radio- and chemo-therapeutic materials, as well as imaging agents for diagnostic purposes.

1 - 16 . (canceled) 
     
     
         17 . A method comprising:
 a) attaching a first IgG species to BN nanotubes to form BN nanotube-IgG composite species;   b) administering said BN nanotube-IgG composite species to a mammalian subject such that the BN nanotube-IgG composite species targets tumors within said subject; and   c) activating at least some of the boron atoms in the BN nanotube-IgG composite species;   d) attaching radioactive isotopes to carbon nanotubes to form radioactive-laden carbon nanotubes;   e) attaching a second IgG species to said radioactive-laden carbon nanotubes to form radioactive-laden carbon nanotube-IgG species; and   f) introducing said radioactive-laden carbon nanotube-IgG species into the mammal; wherein the activating step comprises irradiating the subject with transdermal neutrons to activate the boron atoms.   
     
     
         18 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein the first IgG species and the second IgG species are the same IgG species, different IgG species, or combinations thereof. 
     
     
         19 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein BN nanotubes are encapsulated with a bio-polymer material. 
     
     
         20 . The method of  claim 19 , wherein the bio-polymer is chitosan. 
     
     
         21 . The method of  claim 17 , wherein at least one of the IgG species is attached to the BN nanotubes through the bio-polymer.