Iron oxide nanoparticle-based nanocomposites in biomedical application.

Iron oxide nanoparticles (FeONPs) have been specifically designed for use in biomedical applications by tailoring their properties, micromorphology, and chemical composition through various synthesis techniques. Further modification and functionalization strategies have enabled the incorporation of diverse functional groups or micromorphologies into FeONP-based nanocomposites to meet the demands of specific target applications. FeONP-based nanocomposites improve MRI diagnostic accuracy through dual/multimode imaging and can also be tailored for magnetic particle imaging. Exogenous and endogenous stimuli can enhance drug delivery efficacy. Further research is needed to understand the enhancement effect and design efficient diagnostic and therapeutic agents. Biosafety of FeONP-based nanocomposites is a concern and their bioaccumulation, biodegradation, and bioelimination behavior must be carefully studied for their safe clinical use. Iron-oxide-based biomagnetic nanocomposites, recognized for their significant properties, have been utilized in MRI and cancer treatment for several decades. The expansion of clinical applications is limited by the occurrence of adverse effects. These limitations are largely attributed to suboptimal material design, resulting in agglomeration, reduced magnetic relaxivity, and inadequate functionality. To address these challenges, various synthesis methods and modification strategies have been used to tailor the size, shape, and properties of iron oxide nanoparticle (FeONP)-based nanocomposites. The resulting modified nanocomposites exhibit significant potential for application in diagnostic, therapeutic, and theranostic contexts, including MRI, drug delivery, and anticancer and antimicrobial activity. Yet, their biosafety profile must be rigorously evaluated. Such efforts will facilitate the broader clinical translation of FeONP-based nanocomposites in biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]