Optimization of a NdFeB permanent magnet configuration for in-vivo drug delivery experiments

We propose a new concept of magnetic focusing for targeting and accumulation of functionalized superparamagnetic nanoparticles in living organs through composite configurations of different permanent magnets. The proposed setups fulfill two fundamental requirements for in vivo experiments: 1) reduced size of the magnets to best focusing on small areas representing the targeted organs of mice and rats and 2) maximization of the magnetic driving force acting on the magnetic nanoparticles dispersed in blood. To this aim, several configurations of permanent magnets organized with different degrees of symmetry have been tested. The product B·gradB proportional to the magnetic force has been experimentally measured, over a wide area (20 × 20 mm2), at a distance corresponding to the hypothetical distance of the mouse organ from the magnets. A non-symmetric configuration of mixed shape permanent magnets resulted in particularly promising to achieve the best performances for further in vivo experiments.