Functionalized Magnetic Nanoparticles for Cancer Therapy Publisher



Sabzini M¹ ; Moradi A² ; Sahrayi H² ; Shamsabadipour A¹ ; Namazifard S³ ; Hojjati S⁴ ; Mostafavi E^{5, 6}
Source: Functionalized Nanomaterials for Cancer Research: Applications in Treatments, Tools and Devices Published:2024

Abstract

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) belong to a class of applicable materials for cancer therapy purposes because of their multifaceted nature. Their magnetic guidance characteristics, biocompatibility, stability, and general-purpose design have made MNPs a multimodal delivery platform for targeted cancer treatment. MNPs have been actively considered as the next generation of nanocarriers for transporting anticancer drugs into the tumor environment under several environmental factors with limited side effects on the human body. Besides, MNPs also have been utilized in combination cancer therapies, such as chemo-magnetic hyperthermia, and chemo photothermal therapy, among others, owing to their multifunctional properties. To better use MNPs for cancer therapy, surface functionalization is necessary, as is reducing the cytotoxicity of healthy tissue, increasing circulation time, specific targeting of tumor cells, and managing the sustained release of anticancer agents. Using functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (fMNPs) for cancer therapy purposes need to cover particular criteria for size distribution, surface charge, and biodegradability for specific tumor site. To work in optimal conditions, the utilization of fMNPs depends basically on the preparation processes, which will be highlighted throughout this chapter. First of all, in this chapter, we have provided an overview of MNPs and their merits and demerits. Also, we discussed the application of MNPs in targeted drug delivery systems (DDS) and mentioned the history of MNPs production. Moreover, the drug delivery mechanism of fMNPs and previous in vitro and in vivo studies of targeted DDS, which utilized fMNPs as nano vehicles, are explained. Finally, prospects for the use of fMNPs in cancer therapy and current status and prediction have been highlighted. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.