The Application of Magnetic Particles for Cell Targeting in Preclinical Animal Models: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Magnetic cell targeting is a promising strategy for advancing cell therapy.
• This review examines experimental research on magnetic particle use for targeting mammalian cells in animal models over the last five years.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent experimental research on magnetic cell targeting in animal models.
• To identify trends and evaluate therapeutic outcomes of magnetic cell targeting.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and eLibrary (2019-September 2024).
• Inclusion criteria: original animal studies using magnetic particle-labeled mammalian cells targeted by magnetic fields; exclusion of drug targeting, reviews, and in vitro-only studies.
• Keywords: "magnetic cell targeting," "magnetic cell delivery," "magnetic cell localisation," "magnetic cell guidance."

Main Results:

• 39 studies met criteria, focusing on nervous system (39%), cancer (10%), and other diseases.
• Mesenchymal stromal cells (59%) and immune cells (15%) were commonly targeted using superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (95%).
• Magnetic targeting increased local cell concentration (1.16-20x) and improved therapeutic effects in 85% of studies.

Conclusions:

• Magnetic cell targeting shows significant potential for enhancing cell therapy efficacy.
• Improved local cell retention and therapeutic outcomes were observed across diverse disease models.
• Further research is needed to optimize protocols and expand clinical applications.