Magnetic Particle Imaging: Current and Future Applications, Magnetic Nanoparticle Synthesis Methods and Safety Measures

Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Jul 17;22(14):7651. doi: 10.3390/ijms22147651.

Abstract

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have a wide range of applications; an area of particular interest is magnetic particle imaging (MPI). MPI is an imaging modality that utilizes superparamagnetic iron oxide particles (SPIONs) as tracer particles to produce highly sensitive and specific images in a broad range of applications, including cardiovascular, neuroimaging, tumor imaging, magnetic hyperthermia and cellular tracking. While there are hurdles to overcome, including accessibility of products, and an understanding of safety and toxicity profiles, MPI has the potential to revolutionize research and clinical biomedical imaging. This review will explore a brief history of MPI, MNP synthesis methods, current and future applications, and safety concerns associated with this newly emerging imaging modality.

Keywords: magnetic nanoparticles; magnetic particle imaging; nanoparticle safety; superparamagnetic iron oxide.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / pathology
  • Contrast Media / chemistry*
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods*
  • Diagnostic Imaging / trends
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • Nervous System Diseases / diagnostic imaging
  • Nervous System Diseases / pathology

Substances

  • Contrast Media