Development of multimodal nanoprobe for targeting cancer

Multifunctional superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles have been used for years in cancer research for cancer theranostics in the biomedical field. To be used as a multifunctional theranostic probe specific for cancer cells, it requires to be conjugated with a targeting moiety which can make sure that the nanoparticles attaches only or atleast differently to the cancer cells comparing with the healthy cells. It also requires to be conjugated with a unique contrast agent of a specific imaging modality to validate its use in nanomedicine. SPIONs were first amine functionalized with three variations, thus making three different samples to be compared throughout the project. These samples were then attached with folic acid which is specific for folate receptor that is overexpressed in different types of cancer cells. Then, the SPION-Folic acid (SPION-FA) samples were attached with a fluorescent compound used for fluorescence microscopy, Fluoroisothiocyanate (FITC). These final products were tested for solubility, biocompatibility and the amount of cell uptake. The probes developed in this report can be used for both cell/ tissue imaging and also for invivo imaging.​Master of Science (Biomedical Engineering