A first set of carbon nanotubes is functionalized with streptavidin and co-functionalized with a cell treatment payload material. A second set of carbon nanotubes is functionalized with biotin and co-functionalized with specific cell targeting material. Mixing the first and second sets causes four carbon nanotubes from the second set to attach to each carbon nanotube from the first set. Multiple replicated virus-like particles result. The pharmaceutical composition seeks out and attaches to target cells. The carbon nanotubes from the first set penetrate the targeted cells and deliver their cell treatment payloads into the targeted cells. Near infrared energy is transmitted through tissue heating the carbon nanotubes for targeted cell treatment.
