Progress Article abstract
Nature Nanotechnology 3, 139 - 143 (2008)
doi:10.1038/nnano.2008.39
Subject Categories: Nanobiotechnology | Nanomagnetism and spintronics
Remote control of cellular behaviour with magnetic nanoparticles
Jon Dobson1
Abstract
By binding magnetic nanoparticles to the surface of cells, it is possible to manipulate and control cell function with an external magnetic field. The technique of activating cells with magnetic nanoparticles offers a means to isolate and explore cellular mechanics and ion channel activation to gain better understanding of these processes. Here, we go beyond using this technique as an investigative tool and focus on its potential to actively control cellular functions and processes with an eye towards biological and clinical applications. In particular, we focus on applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Institute for Science & Technology in Medicine, Keele University, Thornburrow Drive, Harsthill, Stoke-on-Trent ST9 9EZ, UK
e-mail: bea22@keele.ac.uk
