Prussian blue nanoparticles and their analogues for application to cancer theranostics.

Abstract

Prussian blue nanoparticles: background & applications Prussian blue (PB), a mixed valance hexacyanomatelate salt, was historically known as ancient dark blue pigment. The discovery and 290 years of history of PB has been well documented by Kraft and Berlin [1]. PB (ferric hexacyanoferrate) and its analogues are well known inorganic salts of co-ordination complexes that show interesting electro, photochemical, biochemical and magnetic properties [2]. The porous nature and special unique properties of PB make them suitable candidates for several biological, medicinal and other applications including photonics, magneto-optical devices, catalysis, energy storage, staining agent for histology study, chelating agent for the removal of heavy metals and radioactive elements [3–5]. Among all applications, Prussian blue nanoparticles (PBNPs) have been extensively used for several biomedical applications including drug delivery due to several advantages like their biocompatible nature, biodegradability, ease to synthesize, controllable shape and morphology, and low production cost. Additionally, Prussian blue capsule, also known as Radiogardase (an active pharmaceutical ingredient), has been approved by the US FDA in 2003 as a safe oral antidote and effective for the treatment of internal contamination with radioactive and nonradioactive metals (thallium, cesium). It works by the combination of thallium and cesium in the intestine and the combined complex is removed from the body through stool.