IMEC reports robust technology to functionalize nanoparticles for biomedical applications

IMEC has developed a generic and versatile method to synthesize stable, biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles. By tuning the endgroups, the functionalized nanoparticles can be used for a variety of biomedical applications, such as accurate drug delivery, improved diagnostics and targeted cancer therapy.

The interest for using functionalized magnetic nanoparticles for biomedical and bioengineering applications is increasing. They can be used for in-vitro as well as in-vivo applications such as magnetic biosensing, cell separation, contrast enhancement in magnetic resonance imaging, tissue repair, hyperthermia treatment and accurate drug delivery.

To apply magnetic nanoparticles in these fields, the size, shape and (bio)chemical coating of the particles need to be accurately controlled, the thermal and chemical stability needs to be retained and the magnetization values must be high.

IMEC realized a first ever reported robust technology for functionalized magnetic nanoparticles meeting the stringent biomedical characteristics by using a hydrophobic surfactant to passivate the surface. To make them compatible with biological environments, the nanoparticles are made water-soluble. The latter is done by a novel self-assembly procedure in which the hydrophobic surface ligands are replaced by silanes bearing a choice of three different endgroups (amino, carboxylic acid or poly, ethylene glycol).

As a result, the magnetic nanoparticles achieve stable and water-dispersible properties. The silane molecules even form a protective layer against mild acid and alkaline environments. The possibility to use three different endgroups makes the nanoparticles suitable to interact with various biological particles such as proteins, DNA or cells.

Gustaaf Borghs, IMEC, said, "Biomedical electronics is one of the fastest growing markets. Technologies for biomedical electronics are developed at the crossroads of microelectronics, nanotechnology and biotechnology and therefore form an interesting research domain for IMEC. By complementing our basic expertise in micro- and nanoelectronic engineering with expertise in the fields of medicine, chemistry and biology, IMEC is becoming an interesting partner for the medical and pharmaceutical industry."

IMEC