Abstract

A new method for the fabrication of Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles enveloped by polymeric nanocapsules is proposed. This method is characterized by combining a double emulsification with the interfacial coprecipitation of iron salts to form Fe(3)O(4)/polymer composite nanocapsules in a single step. To demonstrate the viability of this approach, methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(lactide) (MePLEG) was chosen as the shell material for Fe(3)O(4)/MePLEG nanocapsules. In addition to the versatility offered for fabricating nanocapsules with different shell materials, the method was found to be convenient for adjusting the magnetite content of the nanocapsules from 0 to 43%. In addition to their confirmed T(2)-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enhancement, the resultant composite nanocapsules display much more obvious acoustic responses than MePLEG nanocapsules in an acoustic investigation. Furthermore, the low toxicity of these composite nanocapsules, as confirmed by our study, combined with their magnetic and acoustic properties ensure that these composite nanocapsules have great potential in acting as ultrasonic/MRI dual contrast agents.

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

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.