Magnetic resonance imaging and 5-fluorouracil drug delivery properties of clay-polyethylene glycol coated iron oxide nanoparticles

Abstract

Purpose: Combining magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent as a diagnostic component and anticancer drug as a therapeutic component in a nanosystem allows for simultaneous imaging and anticancer drug delivery. Therefore, the development of a nanosystem with this goal is essential. This study aimed to consider the potential of clay-polyethylene glycol coated iron oxide nanoparticles for MRI and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) delivery. Methods: In this study, a nanocomposite consists of iron oxide nanoparticle with clay and polyethylene glycol was synthesized and loaded with 5-FU. Various analyses tests were performed to consider the nanocomposite structure, magnetic property, and cytotoxicity. MRI was performed for different concentrations of the nanocomposite to determine the transverse relaxivity. Also, the loading and releasing of 5-FU was investigated. Results: The nanocomposite showed a layer structure and superparamagnetic property. The transverse relaxivity of the nanocomposite was calculated to be 558.4 mM-1S-1. The MTT results showed a high cytotoxicity of the nanocomposite against MCF-7 cancer cells which was more than free 5-FU. The drug loading amount was 97% on the nanocomposite and the nanocomposite showed higher drug release in acidic environment. Conclusion: The nanocomposite has potential for MRI contrast enhancement and 5-FU delivery.