Formation of Platinum Nanocrystals on Silicon Nanotubes and Corresponding Anti-Cancer Activity in Vitro

Biodegradable porous silicon nanotubes (pSiNTs), functionalized with primary amine moieties via the use of 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES), is demonstrated as a template for formation of platinum nanocrystals (Pt NCs) (1–3 nm). Transmission electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray analysis (TEM–EDX) indicates a relatively high and tunable concentration of Pt uniformly immobilized on a given nanotube (wt % Pt: 20–60%). In vitro viability and cellular uptake studies are consistent with a time-dependent toxicity of Pt NCs-pSiNTs against HeLa cells that is influenced by the degradation kinetics of the pSiNTs; internalization of the composites inside the cells exerts cellular damage in an apoptotic manner, therefore suggesting promising future applications in anticancer treatments.