Polyethylenimine-Dextran-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles Loaded with Mir-302B Suppress Osteosarcoma <i>In Vitro</i> and <i>In Vivo</i>

Abstract

<b>Aim:</b> We attempted to synthesize a magnetic gene carrier with poly(ethylenimine), dextran and iron oxide nanoparticles (PDIs) for miR-302b transfection <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>. <b>Materials & methods:</b> The nanoparticles were characterized for hydrodynamic properties, ζ potential and DNA-binding ability, evaluated by transmission electron microscopy. Cellular internalization, magnetofection efficiency and anti-osteosarcoma effects were investigated in osteosarcoma (OS) cells and OS-bearing nude mice. <b>Results:</b> PDIs were successfully prepared and showed mild cytotoxicity. A magnetic field efficiently enabled transport of PDI/pmiR302b to OS cells in OS-bearing nude mice, exerting the anti-osteosarcoma effect of miR-302b at the tumor site. The inhibitory effect of miR-302b on osteosarcoma-bearing nude mice may be attributed to regulation of the Hippo pathway through <i>YOD1</i>. <b>Conclusion:</b> Low-cytotoxic PDIs have potential applications as a magnetic transport carrier for future osteosarcoma treatment.