| abstract |
Dynamic magnetic field (DMF) treatment to direct movement, and specifically rotation, of magnetic particles associated with a target structure, so that mechanical force is applied to the target structure. DMF treatment directs rotation about the axis in individual magnetic particles (e.g., superparamagnetic nanoparticles ), effecting permeabilization and/or other disruption of membranes (e.g., cell membranes and/or intracellular membranes). Cell death is remotely induced by application of mechanical force through rotational movement of magnetic particles (specifically superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles, "SPIONs") exposed to DMF treatment. Particles were specifically targeted to lysosomal membrane structures, and were individually induced through application of DMF treatment to rotate about their axes. The resulting mechanical force disrupted (e.g., permeabilized) the lysosomal membranes, releasing lysosomal enzymes and triggering apoptosis, all without heating the particles (or their surroundings). |