Magnetic Nanoparticles Used in Oncology

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology and Materials Science
• Oncology and Cancer Research
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Cancer remains a significant global health challenge, driving research into advanced therapeutic strategies.
• Nanotechnology, particularly magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), presents innovative solutions for targeted cancer treatment.
• Current research focuses on minimizing side effects and improving efficacy in advanced or metastatic cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the synthesis and functionalization methods of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs).
• To highlight the diverse applications of MNPs in various cancer therapy modalities.
• To analyze the role of MNPs in cancer diagnostics and treatment (theranostics).

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on MNP synthesis and functionalization.
• Analysis of MNP applications in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hyperthermia, gene therapy, and ferroptosis.
• Examination of case studies and clinical trials involving MNPs in cancer treatment, including glioblastoma.

Main Results:

• MNPs can be synthesized and functionalized for targeted drug delivery and magnetic field-guided therapies.
• Applications span cancer cell monitoring, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, magnetic hyperthermia, gene therapy, and ferroptosis induction.
• Studies on murine models and humans demonstrate the efficacy of MNPs in cancer treatment, including glioblastoma.

Conclusions:

• Magnetic nanoparticles are highly effective in various cancer therapies, offering targeted treatment with limited side effects.
• MNPs contribute significantly to the theranostics domain, integrating diagnostics and therapy.
• The use of MNPs can enhance life expectancy for patients with drug-resistant cancers.