Characterization of biocompatible NiCo2O4 nanoparticles for applications in hyperthermia and drug delivery

Monodispersed, superparamagnetic nickel cobaltite (NCO) nanoparticles were functionalized using mercaptopropionic acid (MPA). MPA conjugates with NCO forming a metal-carboxylate linkage, with the MPA-MPA interaction occurring via formation of disulfide bonds, leaving another carboxyl end free for additional conjugation. The cytotoxicity studies on NCO-MPA show cell viability of ∼100% up to a dosage of 40 μg/mL on SiHa, MCF7, and B16F10 cell lines, and on mouse primary fibroblasts. Time-dependent cell viability studies done for a duration of 72 hours showed the cell lines’ viability up to 80% for dosages as high as 80 μg/mL. Negligible leaching (<5 ppm) of ionic Co or Ni was noted into the delivery medium. Upon subjecting the NCO-MPA dispersion (0.1 mg/mL) to radiofrequency absorption, the nanoparticles were heated to 75°C within 2 minutes, suggesting its promise as a magnetic hyperthermia agent. Furthermore, the amino acid lysine and the drug cephalexin were successfully adducted to the NCO system, suggesting its potential for drug delivery.From the Clinical EditorNCO-MPA nanopartciles were found to be promising magnetic hyperthermia agents, suggesting potential future clinical applications.

Graphical AbstractSurface functionalization and molecular conjugation of nearly monodispersed nickel cobaltite nanoparticles (NiCo2O4) (NCO) and their evaluation as hyperthermia therapeutic agents and effective drug carriers.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (51 K)Download as PowerPoint slide