Cancer theranostics: the rise of targeted magnetic nanoparticles

Abstract

Interest in utilizing magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) for biomedical applications has grown considerably over the past two decades. This excitement is driven in large part by the success of MNPs as contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The recent investigative trend with respect to cancer has continued down a diagnostic path, but has also turned toward concurrent therapy – giving rise to the distinction of MNPs as potential “theranostics”. Here we review both the key technical principles of MNPs and the ongoing advancement toward a cancer theranostic MNP. Recent progress in diagnostics, hyperthermia treatments, and drug delivery are all considered. We conclude by identifying current barriers to clinical translation of MNPs and offer considerations for their future development.

Magnetite Nanoparticles Encapsulated with PCL and Poloxamer by Nano Spray Drying Technique

“…Iron oxide nanoparticles, such as magnetite and maghemite, present adequate biocompatibility and magnetic properties for therapeutic and diagnostic applications, including magnetic hyperthermia [1], magnetic drug-delivery [2] and magnetic resonance imaging [3], which characterize them as theranostic agents [4]. However, pure iron oxide is not stable in aqueous media and tend to be oxidized by air, so it is crucial to create manners to stabilize them [5].…”

Synthesis, Functionalization, and Design of Magnetic Nanoparticles for Theranostic Applications

“…[741] This will lead to precise delineation of tumor margin as well as the vascular blood supply to tumors. [742] Given the higher uptakes by RES, SPIOs can surprisingly distinguish smaller lesions of about 2-3 mm in liver in clinical applications. [743] In particular, SPIONs are biocompatible, chemically stable, and also biodegradable.…”

Glioblastoma: Current Chemotherapeutic Status and Need for New Targets and Approaches

“…Functional magnetic resonance imaging can assess whether surgical treatment is feasible and select patients for intraoperative cortical stimulation" (Lemont et al, 2007). Recently, use of the nanoparticles in the diagnosis and detection of cancers, including glioblastomas, has gained much impetus because of putative enhancement involving their applications in MRI Cole et al, 2011). The advances in development of newer cancer imaging and therapies based on metallic nanoparticles may help in early detection of cancer and thus contribute to decreasing deaths due to cancer.…”