Surface Modification of Superparamagnetic Nanoparticles for in-vivo Bio-medical Applications

Formulation design facilitates magnetic nanoparticle delivery to diseased cells and tissues

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) accumulate at disease sites with the aid of magnetic fields; biodegradable MNPs can be designed to facilitate drug delivery, influence disease diagnostics, facilitate tissue regeneration and permit protein purification. Because of their limited toxicity, MNPs are widely used in theranostics, simultaneously facilitating diagnostics and therapeutics. To realize therapeutic end points, iron oxide nanoparticle cores (5-30 nm) are encapsulated in a biocompatible polymer shell with drug cargos. Although limited, the toxic potential of MNPs parallels magnetite composition, along with shape, size and surface chemistry. Clearance is hastened by the reticuloendothelial system. To surmount translational barriers, the crystal structure, particle surface and magnetic properties of MNPs need to be optimized. With this in mind, we provide a comprehensive evaluation of advancements in MNP synthesis, functionalization and design, with an eye towards bench-to-bedside translation.

Detection sensitivity of MRI using ultra-small super paramagnetic iron oxide nano-particles (USPIO) in biological tissues

Today, by injecting iron oxide based nanoparticles (USPIO) as MRI contrast agents, it is possible to study lymphatic system and some specific tumors and their metastasis. The type of surface coating, and coating characteristics of the nanoparticles are important factors for the biological properties of nanoparticles and their destination target. On the other hand, these properties contribute to different signal intensities. This may confine application of all types of USPIO based contrast agents in routine daily experiments. In this study, the ability of detecting these particles having various sizes and coating properties was evaluated for MRI applications. Signal intensity changes after administration of these particles into tissues have been studied and their detection sensitivity was evaluated using a liver phantom and animal model (rat). IO based nanoparticles of various sizes (8-30 nm) functionalized and coated with various surface polymers such as dextran and starch, amine and hydroxide groups, and bear IO particles were used to investigate the signal changes. The optimized pulse sequences for proper demonstration of lymph nodes using these contrast agents were found (T2* FSPGR protocol with fat suppressions). A detection sensitivity of 98% was achieved in most experiments during applying a proper MR protocol. However, the type of surface coating, and coating characteristics such as thickness were shown to be essential factors for MRI signal intensity in both T1 and T2 protocols.