Functionalization and incorporation of iron selenide nanoparticles in biomaterials

• Main Author: Pereira, Rute Alexandra Correia
• Publication Date: 2024
• Language: eng
• Source: Repositórios Científicos de Acesso Aberto de Portugal (RCAAP)
• Download full: http://hdl.handle.net/10773/42390
• topic: Magnetic nanoparticles; Surface modification

Fe₃Se₄ nanoparticles have had a special attention from our Research Group in the past years due to their distinguished magnetic properties. Although interesting, there are still some challenges related to the chemical synthesis of these nanoparticles, namely when it comes to size and shape uniformity. With these challenges in mind, Fe₃Se₄ nanoparticles were developed and functionalized within the scope of my Masters Thesis. Following this work, this PhD Thesis presents strategies for the incorporation of Fe₃Se₄ nanoparticles in biomaterials envisioned to be used in biomedical applications, such as hyperthermia and Magnetic Resonance Imaging. In order to test several strategies, and also trying to answer to the challenge of stabilizing nanoparticles inside biomaterials, hydrogels and capsules containing Fe₃Se₄ nanoparticles were prepared. These biomaterials were characterized and tested in cellular assays and further evaluated as possible Contrast Agents for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Overall, the final results are not what might have been expected, but they are still considered an important step for the incorporation of Fe₃Se₄ magnetic nanoparticles in biomaterials.