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Updated: Jan 20, 2026
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Cell Labeling and Targeting with Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Published on: October 19, 2015
12.6K
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) modulate hERG ion channel activity
Roberta Gualdani1,2, Andrea Guerrini1, Elvira Fantechi1
1Dipartimento di Chimica "Ugo Schiff", Università di Firenze , Sesto Fiorentino , Italy.
Nanotoxicology
|August 23, 2019
Summary
Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) can impact cardiac function by inhibiting the hERG channel. Nanoparticle properties like size and oxidation state influence this effect, with potential implications for cardiac safety.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiology
- Nanotoxicology
Background:
- Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) offer significant biomedical benefits but require thorough safety assessments.
- The human ether à go-go-related gene (hERG) channel is crucial for cardiac repolarization and a key target in drug development.
- Understanding SPIONs' cellular effects, particularly on cardiac ion channels, is vital for their safe application.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of SPIONs on hERG channel activity.
- To determine how SPION properties (oxidation state, size, coating) influence hERG channel interaction.
- To assess the potential cardiac risks associated with SPIONs.
Main Methods:
- Utilized patch clamp recordings to measure hERG channel current.
- Evaluated the effects of SPIONs with varying properties on hERG channel function.
- Analyzed changes in channel kinetics and voltage-dependent gating.
Main Results:
- SPIONs were found to inhibit hERG current, with effects varying based on NP coating.
- Aminopropylphosphonic acid (APPA) coated SPIONs exhibited a milder effect on hERG activity.
- A biphasic response was observed: a transient increase followed by inhibition of hERG current.
- Larger size and complete oxidation of SPIONs reduced hERG channel inhibition.
- SPIONs altered hERG gating kinetics and shifted activation/inactivation curves.
Conclusions:
- SPIONs modulate hERG channel activity, potentially affecting cardiac action potential.
- Released Fe2+ ions from magnetite nanoparticles may pose a cardiac risk.
- Nanoparticle characteristics significantly influence their interaction with hERG channels, guiding safer design.
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