NUIG4: A biocompatible pcu metal-organic framework with an exceptional doxorubicin encapsulation capacity

J Mater Chem B. 2022 Mar 2;10(9):1378-1385. doi: 10.1039/d1tb02176a.

Abstract

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising multifunctional porous materials for biomedical and environmental applications. Here, we report synthesis and characterization of a new MOF based on the tetrahedral secondary building unit [Zn4O(CBAB)3]n (NUIG4), where CBABH2 = 4-((4-carboxybenzylidene)amino)benzoic acid. NUIG4 belongs to the family of MOFs with primitive cubic pcu topology, being a rare example with 4-fold interpenetration. The pore architecture enables unprecedentedly high doxorubicin (DOX) loading capacity (1955 mg DOX/g NUIG4) with pH-controlled release. Solid-state NMR and ab initio modeling confirmed formation of aromatic π-π stacking interactions between DOX and the framework. Preliminary cell-line experiments suggested a protective effect of NUIG4 on healthy HDF cells against DOX toxicity. NUIG4 also displays potential for adsorptive small-molecule gas separation, with a BET surface area of 1358 m2 g-1 and high selectivity of 2.75 for C2H2 over CO2.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Doxorubicin / chemistry
  • Doxorubicin / pharmacology
  • Metal-Organic Frameworks* / chemistry
  • Porosity

Substances

  • Metal-Organic Frameworks
  • Doxorubicin