Polymeric nanocomposites loaded with fluoridated hydroxyapatite Ln(3+) (Ln = Eu or Tb)/iron oxide for magnetic targeted cellular imaging

OBJECTIVE: To fabricate polymeric nanocomposites with excellent photoluminescence, magnetic properties, and stability in aqueous solutions, in order to improve specificity and sensitivity of cellular imaging under a magnetic field. METHODS: Fluoridated Ln(3+)-doped HAP (Ln(3+)-HAP) NPs and iron oxides (IOs) can be encapsulated with biocompatible polymers via a modified solvent exaction/evaporation technique to prepare polymeric nanocomposites with fluoridated Ln(3+)-HAP/iron oxide. The nanocomposites were characterized for surface morphology, fluorescence spectra, magnetic properties and in vitro cytotoxicity. Magnetic targeted cellular imaging of such nanocomposites was also evaluated with confocal laser scanning microscope using A549 cells with or without magnetic field. RESULTS: The fabricated nanocomposites showed good stability and excellent luminescent properties, as well as low in vitro cytotoxicity, indicating that the nanocomposites are suitable for biological applications. Nanocomposites under magnetic field achieved much higher cellular uptake via an energy-dependent pathway than those without magnetic field. CONCLUSION: The nanocomposites fabricated in this study will be a promising tool for magnetic targeted cellular imaging with improved specificity and enhanced selection.