Scientists at Ogarev Mordovian State University have created biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) for magnetic hyperthermic treatment of cancer. The MNPs are intended for targeted tumor destruction, aiming to minimize harm to healthy tissues. This was reported by the university’s press service.
The method involves introducing iron oxide nanoparticles into the tumor, which are then heated to 43–45 °C under the influence of an alternating magnetic field to destroy cancer cells. Hyperthermia, unlike chemotherapy, generally offers localized treatment, which can minimize the risk of side effects compared to systemic chemotherapy.
The nanoparticles are stabilized with oleic acid and sodium oleate, which prevents them from sticking together and increases stability in solution. Unlike their foreign counterparts with organosilicon coatings, Russian nanoparticles are more biocompatible.
Pilot preclinical trials on animals with carcinoma demonstrated effective tumor growth inhibition, increased survival rates, and no observed toxicity. The next stage includes full-scale preclinical studies, optimization of dosage and methods of administration.
The project is being implemented at the Federal Center for the Development of Biotechnologies and Medicine of the Ogarev Moscow State University. The team consists of specialists in medicine, chemistry, physics, biotechnology and pharmacy, including undergraduates and postgraduates.
The development opens the way to the creation of a domestic high-tech drug for targeted cancer therapy and may become an important element of personalized medicine in Russia.
Earlier it was reported that in Russia, since the beginning of 2023, the number of registered radiopharmaceuticals has increased from 54 to 62, with about 90% of them produced in the country. Over the past 5 years, the one-year mortality rate of cancer patients has decreased by 18%, and the detection of cancer in the early stages has increased by 7%.