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Synthesis of Cationized Magnetoferritin for Ultra-fast Magnetization of Cells
Published on: December 13, 2016
Cell internalization of magnetic nanoparticles using transfection agents
Karin Montet-Abou1, Xavier Montet, Ralph Weissleder
1Center for Molecular Imaging Research Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA.
Molecular Imaging
|February 22, 2007
Summary
Optimizing Feridex IV magnetic cell labeling with transfection agents (TFAs) is crucial. Careful selection of Feridex/TFA mixtures minimizes nanoparticle precipitation and cell surface adsorption, ensuring proper iron oxide nanoparticle internalization.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Feridex IV magnetic cell labeling offers pharmaceutical iron oxide sourcing.
- Challenges include nanoparticle precipitation and cell surface adsorption due to charge interactions.
- Surface adsorption can lead to antibody-mediated cytotoxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop optimized Feridex IV and transfection agent (TFA) mixtures.
- To minimize nanoparticle precipitation and surface adsorption during cell labeling.
- To ensure efficient internalization of magnetic nanoparticles for cell tracking.
Main Methods:
- Utilized light scattering assay for nanoparticle stability.
- Employed magnetic filter retention assay to quantify labeled cells.
- Applied an antidextran-based assay to assess nanoparticle internalization.
Main Results:
- Feridex/protamine mixtures resulted in internalized iron, unlike Feridex/Lipofectamine which showed surface adsorption.
- Optimal labeling conditions identified as 10 µg/Feridex and 3 µg/mL protamine sulfate.
- Selected Feridex/TFA combinations effectively reduced precipitation and surface adsorption.
Conclusions:
- Careful selection of Feridex/TFA mixtures is essential for successful magnetic cell labeling.
- Protamine sulfate demonstrated superior performance over Lipofectamine for Feridex internalization.
- Optimized protocols enhance the reliability and safety of Feridex IV cell labeling.

