Confronting stem cells with surface-modified magnetic nanoparticles and low-frequency pulsed electromagnetic field

• Published in: Emergent materials (Online) 2025-01
• Main Authors: Bayramli-Öner, Burcu, Lalegül-Ülker, Özge, Sezer, Serap, Elçin, Ayşe Eser, Elçin, Yaşar Murat
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2522-5731; 2522-574X
• DOI: 10.1007/s42247-025-00997-x

The combined use of Low Frequency-Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (LF-PEMF) and magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) represents an innovative approach for biomedical applications in recent years. Also, the surface properties of MNPs play a crucial role in understanding how they will interact with biological systems and determining their suitability for the intended applications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the interactions of MNPs with different surface charges with adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) under LF-PEMF stimulation. Intracellular localization and in vitro cytotoxicity of surface-modified MNPs were examined through their interaction with AD-MSCs. Calcium and histochemical analysis were performed to investigate the synergistic effect of LF-PEMF. It was determined that application of MNPs (50 µg/mL) with LF-PEMF (1.3 mT, 15 Hz) did not demonstrate a cytotoxic effect on AD-MSCs. The surface modification of MNPs ensured a homogeneous distribution within cells, with cationic nanoparticles being predominantly localized around the nucleus, while anionic nanoparticles were dispersed in the cytoplasm. Furthermore, LF-PEMF exposure influenced cell morphology, leading to increased cytoplasmic extensions, particularly in cells interacting with silica-coated MNPs. These results shed light on the importance of how the surface properties of MNPs interact with cells under LF-PEMF stimulation and pave the way for future studies. Graphical abstract