Characterizations of magnetotactic bacteria conjugated versus unconjugated with carboxylate-Functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for tumor targeting purposes

Targeted drug delivery through the use of swimming microorganisms known as Magnetococcus marinus MC-1 magnetotactic bacteria (or MTB) [1] acting as nanorobots loaded with therapeutic agents has been demonstrated [2]. While the role of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in medicine and more specifically drug delivery enhancement is generally known [3], this study aims to couple the previously mentioned bacteria with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) via bioconjugation with antibody and without altering the bacteria cells swimming capability for drug delivery enhancement. The attachment efficiency, alignment in magnetic field and average swimming velocity in external magnetic field of the MTB-MNPs were investigated. Results indicated that MTB-MNPs could be potential agents for solid tumor targeting and cancer therapy.