Enhanced functionalization of superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles for advanced drug enrichment and separation applications

Abstract

Background

superparamagnetic ferroferric oxide (Fe₃O₄) nanoparticles can be extensively functionalized for applications in drug enrichment and separation. Their high magnetic responsiveness and controllable surface modification enable rapid drug enrichment and separation under external magnetic fields. This study aimed to enhance the application potential of superparamagnetic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles in the field of drug enrichment and separation by functionalizing these nanoparticles to improve their biocompatibility and targeting capabilities.

Methods

superparamagnetic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles functionalized with dopamine were synthesized using benzyl alcohol as the solvent and iron acetylacetonate as the precursor. The dopamine-functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles were used to analyze protein enrichment and separation. Characterization of the nanoparticles was conducted, including analysis of particle size distribution, Zeta potential, and fluorescence spectra using a fluorescence spectrophotometer.

Results

the Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles maintained high magnetism from the original material and exhibited uniform particle size distribution and stable Zeta potential. The saturation magnetization of dopamine-functionalized superparamagnetic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles showed no significant difference compared to before coating, indicating minimal influence of dopamine on the internal magnetic core of the nanoparticles. The Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles demonstrated good biocompatibility and stability.

Conclusion

functionalization of superparamagnetic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles significantly enhances their efficiency in drug enrichment and separation processes, suggesting broad applications in the pharmaceutical industry.