Superparamagnetic graphene oxide–Fe3O4nanoparticles hybrid for controlled targeted drug carriers

Abstract

A superparamagnetic graphene oxide –Fe₃O₄nanoparticles hybrid (GO–Fe₃O₄) was prepared via a simple and effective chemical precipitation method. The amount of loading of Fe₃O₄ on GO was estimated as 18.6 wt% by atomic absorption spectrometry. The hybrid was then loaded with doxorubicin hydrochloride (DXR) and the loading capacity was as high as 1.08 mg mg⁻¹. Both of the GO–Fe₃O₄ hybrids before and after loading with DXR can be dispersed well in aqueous solution. They can congregate under acidic conditions and move regularly under the force of an external magnet. Furthermore, the aggregated hybrid can be redispersed to form a stable suspension under basic conditions. These properties make it a potential candidate for controlled targeted drug delivery and release.