7. Magnetic particles and targeted stem cell delivery

Nanoparticles have also found applications in the directed migration of cells in cell therapy. In the medium term, adult stem cells will be used to heal connective tissue, rebuild failing organs or simply synthesize molecules required for certain functions, such as dopamine in the brains of Parkinson's patients. It is essential that these cells, multiplied and/or modified in vitro, migrate and remain in localized areas of the body after reintroduction.

To achieve this, cells can be exposed to nanoparticles in vitro, and "loaded" by endocytosis with a mass of nanoparticles that will then make them sensitive to an external magnetic field. They can also be placed on magnetic vectors outside the cell, which then maintain the cells in an external magnetic field. Particles with a hydroxyapatite ceramic coating on an iron core have been developed. Synthesis takes place...