Method to Synthesize, Optimize and Characterize Smart Multi-Functional Magnetic Nanoparticles for Cancer Targeting

Over the past few decades, there has been an increasing interest in using nanotechnology for cancer therapy. The development of smart targeted nanoparticles (NPs), polymer-drug conjugates, hydrogel loaded drugs etc. that can deliver drugs at a sustained rate directly to cancer cells may provide better efficacy and lower toxicity for treating primary and advanced metastatic tumors

This paper deals with a method to synthesize, optimize and characterize a novel drug delivery system. This system encapsulates a hydrophobic drug with anti-cancer properties (curcumin) and magnetic nanoparticles within thermally sensitive NIPAAM-PEGMA polymer nanoparticles. The system was optimized with respect to the iron: monomer ratio for optimum size, stability and magnetic property. The characterization of the nanoparticles has been done by FTIR spectra, DLS, TEM, AFM, pH stability, temperature stability, TGA and Vibrating Sample Magnetometer. The in vitro release of a hydrophobic drug (curcumin) loaded onto the system was studied in the BSA solution. Finally the drug release kinetics was studied based on the models proposed in the literature and the system was found to follow a first order drug release property.

This multiple responsive system is effective in enhancing the efficacy of the hydrophobic drug and in controlling its release to the tumor regions. These magnetic nanoparticles will be useful in cancer diagnostics in addition to cancer therapy.