Simple surface functionalization of magnetic nanoparticles with methotrexate-conjugated bovine serum albumin as a biocompatible drug delivery vehicle

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) functionalized with methotrexate (MTX)-conjugated bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a biocompatible drug delivery vehicle were synthesized using a facile method. Characterization of the functionalized MNPs (Fe₃O₄@BSA-MTX NPs) was performed using various techniques including UV–visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, vibrating sample magnetometry and X-ray diffraction. The particle size and zeta potential of Fe₃O₄@BSA-MTX NPs were 105.7 ± 3.81 nm (mean ± SD) and −18.2 mV, respectively. MTX release from Fe₃O₄@BSA-MTX NPs showed an enzyme-dependent release pattern. Hemo-biocompatibility of Fe₃O₄@BSA-MTX NPs was confirmed using hemolysis test. In addition, the cytotoxicity of functionalized MNPs and free MTX against MCF-7 cell line was investigated using MTT assay. The results of experiments revealed that the Fe₃O₄@BSA-MTX NPs as a biocompatible carrier could improve the therapeutic effect of MTX.