Iron Oxide Nanoparticle (IONP)

Iron oxide nanoparticles are particles of iron oxide, typically magnetite (Fe₃O₄) or maghemite (γ-Fe₂O₃), with diameters ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers. They exhibit superparamagnetic properties, high surface area, and biocompatibility, making them useful in materials science, medicine, and engineering. Common applications include magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents, drug delivery vehicles, hyperthermia therapy, biosensing, and catalysis. Surface modification is crucial for stability and biocompatibility, and various coatings like polymers, lipids, or silica are employed. While generally considered relatively non-toxic compared to other metal-based nanoparticles, potential safety concerns include toxicity dependent on size and coating, biodistribution, and long-term effects.

Other names

Magnetite nanoparticleMaghemite nanoparticleFe3O4 nanoparticleγ-Fe2O3 nanoparticle