Magnetomechanical Force-Driven Cell Permeabilization via Pulsed Magnetic Field and Magnetic Nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Nanotechnology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Pulsed magnetic field (PMF) is a non-contact technique that can regulate cell membrane permeability.
• The exact mechanisms and efficiency of PMF for cell permeabilization require further investigation.
• Magnetic nanoparticles offer potential for magneto-mechanical regulation, suggesting a synergistic approach with PMF.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the combined effects of PMF and magnetic nanoparticles on cell membrane permeability.
• To elucidate the underlying physical and biochemical mechanisms of enhanced permeabilization.
• To optimize cell permeabilization through magneto-mechanical force (MMF) generated by magnetic nanoparticles.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical analysis of forces on magnetic nanoparticles for parameter selection.
• In vitro experiments assessing cell membrane permeability with PMF alone and in combination with magnetic nanoparticles.
• Fluorescence probe assays to investigate biochemical pathways and cytoskeletal changes.

Main Results:

• The combination of PMF and magnetic nanoparticles significantly enhanced cell membrane permeabilization compared to PMF alone.
• Half-maximal effective dose decreased by 27.85%, and the rate of change in permeabilization increased by 49.7% with the combined treatment.
• Combined treatment induced physical disruption of cytoskeletal microfilaments, unlike the biochemical pathways activated by PMF alone.

Conclusions:

• Combining PMF with magnetic nanoparticles provides a novel and effective physical method to enhance cell membrane permeability.
• Magneto-mechanical force generated by magnetic nanoparticles under PMF is the key mechanism for improved permeabilization.
• This approach allows for precise control of cell membrane permeability based on physical parameters, offering a new avenue in biomedical applications.