Synthesis and characterization of magnetic nanoparticles based on N-palmitoyl-chitosan with potential applications in cancer theranostics

A novel magnetic carrier has been prepared by ionic gelation of N-palmitoyl chitosan with sodium tripolyphosphate, in the presence of magnetite. N-palmitoyl chitosan structure has been confirmed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (
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H-NMR) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Dynamic light scattering measurements showed that magnetic nanoparticles have a hydrodynamic mean diameter of about 150 nm and positive zeta potential. The particles are characterized by high magnetic saturation, superparamagnetic behaviour and exhibit the ability to incorporate a chemoterapeutic agent (Doxorubicin), properties that can be further exploited in cancer theranostics.