Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are gaining much attention
due to
their applications in specialized fields, including diagnosis, bioimaging,
drug delivery, and cell therapy. In recent years, the field of stem
cell and regenerative medicine comprising tissue engineering and drug
delivery has been powered by nanoparticles. Particularly, mesenchymal
stem cells (MSCs) are characterized with adequate immunomodulatory
potential coupled with an excellent regenerative ability that contributes
to improved therapy of various diseases. For clinical applications
of MSCs, tracking and labeling are crucial to determine cell homing
and distribution. Therefore, due to the high potential of MNPs in
stem cell therapy, this review comprehensively uncovers the advancements
in the respective field. Also, it discusses the usage of surface-functionalized
materials in improving the physicochemical properties of MNPs, making
them suitable candidates for several biomedical applications. Moreover,
we have discussed that these nanoparticles within applied magnetic
field and electromagnetic field have been considered multifunctional
agents for labeling, stimulating, tracking, and targeting stem cells
in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, the discussion comprises the progress
and challenges associated with MNPs used as effective therapeutic,
delivery, and diagnostic agents to treat cancer, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative,
and bone-related disorders. Finally, the review discussed that the
magnetic nanoparticles have also been widely used for targeted cancer
cell therapy due to mechanical force for killing cancer cells under
a magnetic field. It is concluded that the mechanical force produced
by MNPs in a low-frequency vibrating magnetic field is the most promising
and safe option for the destruction of tumor cells. In short, this
review summarized the role of magnetic nanomaterials for effective,
safe, and efficient nanomaterial-cell-based therapies.
