Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles functionalized by biocompatible ligands with enhanced high specific absorption rate for magnetic hyperthermia

Abstract

This study introduces a novel green nanocomposite system of iron oxide coated with secondary metabolites (Fe3O4@SM) and compares it with commonly used materials for hyperthermia cancer treatment. Fe3O4@SM magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized through a simple co-precipitation process using metal precursors, followed by heating in pressure reactor to obtain superparamagnetic nanoparticles (Hc = 36.5–54.1 Oe at 300 K). These nanoparticles were subsequently coated with plant-based phytochemicals. XRD analysis confirmed the presence of magnetite iron oxide nanoparticles. SEM images further confirmed the spherical shape of the synthesized nanoparticles, exhibiting a face-centered cubic (FCC) iron oxide structure with sizes ranging from 12±7–85±15 nm. Characterization through dynamic light scattering (DLS) and zeta potential (ζ) analysis demonstrated colloidal stability, with a polydispersity index (PDI) ranging from 0.226 to 0.436 and zeta potential values ranging from −29.761–1.85 mV. The surface of the nanoparticles was analyzed using GC-MS, which identified bioactive functional groups including ester (42.79 %), terpene (20.69 %), hydrocarbons (17.4 %), and carboxylic (12.37 %) compounds. Compared to Fe3O4 and Fe3O4@GO, Fe3O4@SM exhibited a higher rate of temperature increase within the therapeutic range, reaching Tmax = 45°C with a heating rate (dT/dt) of 0.273 °C/s and specific absorption rate (SAR) of 230.6 W/g at 304 kHz and 400 Oe. In vitro assays utilizing a triple negative breast cancer microenvironment confirmed the non-toxicity of these materials through a DNS assay. The developed nanoparticles offer dual mechanisms of action, combining thermal and chemo effects, making them promising candidates for hyperthermia cancer treatment.