Multifunctional Magnetic Nanoparticles for Dynamic Imaging and Therapy

Multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) exhibit unique properties, such as remote motion controllability, degradability, and diagnostic imaging, which are typically not shown in nonmagnetic nanomaterials. MNPs remotely controllable via magnetic fields offer advantages of high tissue penetrability and biocompatibility. In this review, recent advances of multifunctional MNPs exhibiting unique characteristic for therapeutic applications are summarized, which utilize the dynamic motion, iron ion degradation, or imaging-guided targeting of the MNPs under diverse magnetic field modes. The magnetic field-controlled MNP motion enables spatiotemporal and reversible in situ cell regulation and mechanosensitive molecule modulation or thermal energy generation. Furthermore, the iron-based MNPs can produce degraded ions and reactive oxygen species to enable targeted ferroptosis therapy with medical imaging-guided approaches. The state-of-the-art imaging-guided dynamic therapy using the MNPs that can provide in situ feedback at each therapeutic stage is highlighted. Potential hurdles in translating the magnetic dynamic imaging and therapy toward clinical practices are also discussed. The imaging capability of the MNPs during dynamic magneto-cell regulation enables noninvasive, safe, localized, and on-demand regulation for the state-of-the-art regenerative therapy, immunotherapy, and cancer treatment.

Automated summary

This article reviews recent advances in multifunctional magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with unique characteristics for therapeutic applications, including remote motion control, degradability, and imaging-guided targeting. The dynamic motion, iron ion degradation, and imaging-guided targeting of MNPs under different magnetic field modes enable spatial and temporal regulation of cells and molecules, as well as thermal energy generation. Furthermore, the iron-based MNPs can be used for targeted ferroptosis therapy with medical imaging guidance. The article highlights the state-of-the-art imaging-guided dynamic therapy using MNPs, which can provide in situ feedback at each therapeutic stage. Potential challenges in translating magnetic dynamic imaging and therapy into clinical practice are also discussed.