Titanate nanotubes modified with gallium and cerium and their cytotoxic activity

Sodium titanate nanotubes (NaTiNT) were synthesized using the hydrothermal method; subsequently, ion exchange reactions were carried out on the ions of Na + present in the lamellar spaces of nanotubes by the intercalation of Ga 3+ and/or Ce 4+ and/or, revealing the presence of phases like: α-GaOOH and CeO 2 , probably decorating the surface of the nanotubes showing a complex heterostructure. As far as we know, these are the first titanate nanotubes intercalated with these two ions, gallium, and cerium, reported in the literature. Ion exchange processes preserved the original tubular structure of titanate nanotubes with relevant changes in their surface and interlamellar environment. It is known by the researchers that titanate nanotubes have low toxicity and acceptable biocompatibility. Here, we show that the insertion of Ce 4+ and/or Ga 3+ in titanate nanotubes increased its cytotoxic activity in melanoma cells, indicating that these hybrid nanomaterials are promising in future for health applications. Graphical abstract