superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle
superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle
An iron oxide nanoparticle consisting of a magnetic iron oxide core (usually magnetite, Fe<small><sub>3</sub></small>O<small><sub>4</sub></small>, or maghemite, γ-Fe<small><sub>2</sub></small>O<small><sub>3</sub></small>). They may be coated with a biocompatible polymer or precipitated within the pores of a porous biocompatible polymer, which can be attached to cytotoxic drugs or antibodies. These can be targeted to the required area using external magnets; after the external magnetic field is removed, the particles no longer show magnetic interaction.