Microscopy study of magnetic fluid hyperthermia on breast cancer cells

Abstract

Magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH) using magnetic nanoparticles that produce heat in response to an external alternating magnetic field is a promising therapy in cancer treatment offering the possibility to deliver targeted treatment, focusing the energy source to achieve doses that are selectively localized within the tumor volume. In this work, we systematically study MFH treatment at various alternating magnetic field (AMF) frequencies and iron oxide nanoparticles (30 nm) concentrations on breast cancer cells in vitro using optical microscopy. Calorimetry measurements show that therapeutic temperature range in the ferrofluid is reached after about 30 s at 402 kHz and 300 G. Microscopy results reveal that at sufficient ferrofluid concentrations > 25 ?L, cancer cell death is caused by the AMF treatment at 300 G and 402 kHz for 30 min. Further experimental development towards in situ temperature and microscopy monitoring is planned.