Abstract
The ability to control or manipulate the pathways leading to cell death plays a pivotal role in cancer treatment. We demonstrate magneto-actuation of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) to induce different cell death signaling pathways, exemplifying the intricate interplay between apoptosis and necrosis. In vitro cell experiments show the cell viabilities decreases with increasing field strength and is lower in cells treated with low aspect ratio MNPs. In a strong vertical magnetic field gradient, the MNPs were able to apply sufficient force on the cell to trigger the intracellular pathway for cell apoptosis, thus significantly reducing the cell viability. The quantification of apoptotic and necrotic cell populations by fluorescence dual staining attributed the cell death mechanism to be predominantly apoptosis in a magnetic field gradient. In contrast, the MNPs in an alternating magnetic field gradient can effectively rupture the cell membrane leading to higher lactate dehydrogenase leakage and lower cell viability, proving to be an effective induction of cell death via necrosis.
Highlights
In recent years, magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have rapidly gained traction in the biomedical fields as magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents[1,2], biosensors[3,4] and controlled drug delivery[5,6]
The relationship between the magnetic torque and the applied magnetic field is given by jτj 1⁄4 jm Bj 1⁄4 MVBsinθ, where m is magnetic moment and M is the magnetization of the MNP in the applied mπÀad2gÁn2el,tiacnfidelθd
In summary, we have demonstrated the ability to control the initiation of cell apoptosis or necrosis by magneto-actuation of MNPs
Summary
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have rapidly gained traction in the biomedical fields as magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents[1,2], biosensors[3,4] and controlled drug delivery[5,6]. The magnetic hysteresis of the MNPs result in energy dissipated as thermal energy that induces a rise in temperature to a range of 41‒43 °C. Multiple cell death pathways can be observed simultaneously in cell cultures or tissues exposed to different types of MNPs and magnetic field configurations. Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death characterized by morphological features, such as reduction of cell volume, membrane blebbing and formation of apoptotic bodies[19,20]. It is vital for normal development, homeostasis and functioning of the immune system, and antiinflammatory reactions. Necrosis is a form of unprogrammed cell death arising from external perturbations with the release of intracellular contents after cell membrane damage, causing inflammation
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
