DC magnetic field induced magnetocytolysis of cancer cells targeted by LH-RH magnetic nanoparticles in vitro

Major advances in nanotechnology and cancer biology have occurred throughout the last 30 years. The concept of "magnetic nanoclinic" demonstrated here, combines these advances in cancer and nanotechnology forming the basis for a new generation of non-invasive anti-cancer tools. This nanoclinic is a multifunctional nanoparticle (<50 nm) that has been fabricated to selectively enter, provide optical imaging capability and administer externally controled therapy from within the cell. The magnetic nanoclinics were designed with an Fe2O3 core for magnetocytolysis using a DC magnetic field and a two-photon fluorescent probe to aid in optical tracking. Surface labeling with the peptide analog of luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LH-RH) provides targeting to specific cancer types. These nanoclinics demonstrate the ability to selectively lyse cells expressing LH-RH receptors upon exposure to a DC magnetic field similar to that used for magnetic resonance imager in diagnostic settings. This study demonstrates the fabrication of and in vitro feasibility of nanoclinics as a non-invasive approach to the treatment of selected cancers using a DC magnetic field.