Use of Nanoparticles for Radiosensitization and Imaging

TiO₂ nanoparticles are being developed to enhance the killing effects of ionizing radiation for use in cancer therapy. These nanoparticles can be detected in mammalian cells using synchrotron-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy. An Fe core permits detection by MR contrast and thus provides a means of detecting and treating cancer with a single nanoparticle. Targeting is achieved using surface receptors such as Epidermal Growth Factor.