Iron oxide Nanoparticles; A Review on the role of Transition Metal doping on its magnetic properties and particle size for imaging and therapeutic applications
Izunna S. Okeke, E. O. Echeweozo, Amoge Chidinma Ogu, Priscilla Yahemba Aondona, Fabian I. Ezema
Abstract
Iron oxide nanoparticles (IO-NPs) are one of the remarkable materials for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. However, its applications are still facing a good number of challenges. Hence, there is growing interest in modifying IO-NPs properties to enhance their applicability. In this review, the effect of Transition Metal (TM) doping on the IO-NPs magnetic properties and particle sizes as well as its role in IO-NPs imaging and therapeutic applications was discussed. Reviewed articles show that doping IO-NPs with TM alters their magnetic properties and particle size. In imaging, this had led to significant effects on IO-NPs relaxometric parameters and ultimate improvement in image contrasts in MRI. Gold-doped IO-NPs indicated improved performance in tumor catalytic and x-ray radiation therapy. Furthermore, research findings revealed that TM provides the opportunity for temperature control in IO-NPs hyperthermia application. The findings from the reviewed papers suggest that TM doped IO-NPs can be critical in enhancing applications of IO-NPs in hyperthermia, drug delivery diagnostics, and therapeutics.