Magnetic Nanoparticles for Imaging, Diagnosis, and Drug-Delivery Applications

Magnetic Nanoparticles (MNPs) have gained interest within the research community due to their therapeutic potential in a variety of medical applications. MNPs are generally composed of a metallic core stabilized by the addition of an outer shell that can be further functionalized through the absorbance or conjugation of various targeting ligands. The magnetic properties of these nanoparticles can be utilized for imaging, localized drug delivery, and enhanced diagnostic detection. This chapter highlights the applications of MNPs to enhance magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) capabilities and improve the delivery of therapeutic agents to difficult-to-reach areas in the body. In addition, recent advances in the use of MNPs in stem cell therapy for both the tracking and monitoring of stem cell distribution in the body and improving engraftment and differentiation in stem cell therapy are discussed. Finally, examples of the incorporation of MNPs in diagnostic assays to improve rapid and realtime detection capabilities of many diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and pathogen infections, are provided.