Analytical methodology for developing nanomaterials designed for magnetically-guided delivery of platinum anticancer drugs

Metallodrug delivery using magnetic nanomaterials is emerging as a tool for the treatment of cancer because of its potential of enhanced and controlled delivery to a specific site within the body, reduced side effects, and protection of drugs from the extracellular environment. In this brief review, we discuss recent progress in the development of iron oxide nanoparticles loaded with platinum anticancer drugs due to applying modern analytical techniques. Such techniques may vary depending on what step of manufacture and assessment of magnetic nanocarriers is in question, i.e., drug loading, payload stability, magnetic properties, drug release or the efficiency against different cancer cell lines. While focusing on a wider implementation of advanced analytical methodologies, we also critically contemplate how they help create more potent magnetic nanoformulations, resolve the current challenges with the use of magnetic nanomaterials in smart metallodrug delivery and thus accelerate their translation to human treatments.