Transformative Iron Metal Nanoparticles with Controlled Oxidation for Magnetic Particle Imaging. - Project Summary
This study focusses on the synthesis and characterization of an entirely new class of iron
nanoparticles that transition to iron oxide nanoparticles (in vivo) over a controllable period
consistent with providing biocompatibility and novel function.
After synthesis, the particles will be characterized to reveal their size, structure, size
distribution and magnetic properties. The degree of oxidation of FeNPs will be assessed by
Mössbauer spectroscopy. The in vitro biocompatibility will be determined at various extents
of oxidation. The magnitude of magnetic particle imaging signal and resolution will be
determined as a function of FeNP oxidation.
The Specific Aims of our research include: 1) The synthesis of iron nanoparticles for
biomedical applications; 2) physical characterization and magnetic property determination
of the iron nanoparticles; and 3) quantitative characterization of FeNPs, biocompatibility
and MP image contrast capability in mammalian cells.
We will create iron nanoparticles of uniform size with coatings that allow controllable
oxidation. We will then demonstrate the transformative capabilities of these materials in
producing a more sensitive nanoparticle for magnetic particle imaging. The new
nanoparticle performance will be compared with VivoTrax, a commercial FeOxNP.
Dr. Jacqueline Johnson’s group has performed preliminary research in the development of
these nanoparticles and Dr. Johnson is a leading expert on the analysis of magnetic
materials using Mössbauer spectroscopy as well as many preliminary characterization
methods. Dr. Giorgio’s group has extensive experience in appropriate coatings of
nanoparticles and transmission electron microscopy studies. Dr. Lu is an expert in
nanoparticle chemistry; Dr. Lu and graduate research assistant, Aleia Williams, have been
developing synthesis methods of FeNPs since 2020. This project will form the basis of
Aleia’s and Vanderbilt GRA’s PhD work, summer research for interns at UTSI and research
projects for resident undergraduates at Vanderbilt, for the duration of the project. In total,
this is training for 8-10 students at various levels. The group will assess imaging
performance as investigated by the company Magnetic Insight, who are developing
instrumentation for Magnetic Particle Imaging.
