Synthesis of iron oxide nanocube patched Janus magnetic nanocarriers for cancer therapeutic applications.

Janus magnetic particles, which can be customized for various multifunctionalities, have promising potential for cancer therapeutic carriers. Herein we synthesized iron oxide nanocube (IONC) patched Janus magnetic nanocarriers (IONCs-P-JMNC) using emulsification and interface evaporation/assembly. Novel IONC patches were generated with an optimal ratio of CTAB and oleic acid coated IONCs in the emulsion. 2D assembled IONC patched Janus magnetic porous silica nanocarriers (IONCs-P-JMNC) formed with the addition of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS). The anisotropically IONC patched Janus nanocarriers, allowing effective MRI T2* contrast and magneto-mechanical properties, are expected to be used for a new type of multifunctional carrier in cancer therapeutic applications.