Hybrid Polymeric-Magnetic Nanoparticles in Cancer Treatments

Over the last years, magnetic nanoparticles have received a great attention in cancer therapy and diagnosis. Magnetic drug targeting, is a particularly promising application in this area as the nanoparticles can be directed to the tumor by external magnetic field and concentrated the drug in this tumor tissue. In addition to this magnetic targeting, their inherent magnetic properties provide sensitive contrast enhancement in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and can, therefore, be visualized and used for theranostic purposes. Another important pillar of cancer therapy in which magnetic nanoparticles can be successfully employed is the hyperthermia induced either magnetically or by infrared irradiation. In addition, recent works have suggested that magnetic nanoparticles can be used for mechanical stimulation of cells affecting their viability. Most of these applications require modification of the physiochemical and surface properties of the magnetic nanoparticles to control their biodistribution, toxicity and pharmacokinetics. In relation to this, polymer coatings are probably the preference alternative to cover the magnetic nanoparticles for cancer treatment applications. In this review, we attempt to provide an overview of the recent advances in the development and applications of polymeric magnetic nanoparticles in cancer treatment and diagnosis including MRI, drug delivery, magnetic hyperthermia, photothermia and magnetolysis.