Folate-conjugated carbon nanotubes as a promising therapeutic approach for targeted cancer therapy

Conventional systemic cancer therapy often causes numerous adverse events. However, discovering overexpressed folate receptors in solid tumours has paved the way for targeted chemotherapy. Folic acid (FA), a ligand for these receptors, is frequently combined with chemotherapeutic drugs to improve their effectiveness. Carbon nanotubes have emerged as a versatile and promising method for delivering these folate-conjugated nano-systems, ensuring targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to cancerous cells. When FA-conjugated nanotubes dissociate, they release the drug-loaded nanotubes inside the malignant cells, reducing off-target effects. These nanotubes can also be used for combination therapies, producing synergistic effects. This review aims to comprehensively gather and critically evaluate the latest methods for delivering therapeutics using FA-conjugated nanovehicles. Additionally, it seeks to enhance our comprehension of the pertinent chemistry and biochemical pathways involved in this approach.