Efficient transfection of MG-63 osteoblasts using magnetic nanoparticles and oscillating magnetic fields

Aims: To examine the potential of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in transfecting human osteosarcoma fibroblasts (MG‐63) and investigate the effects of a novel non‐viral oscillating nanomagnetic gene transfection system (magnefect‐nano™) in enhancing transfection efficiency (TE). Methods: MG‐63 cells were transfected using MNPs coupled with a GFP‐carrying plasmid. The magnefect‐nano system was evaluated for transfection efficiency and potential associated effects on cell viability. Results: MG‐63 cells were efficiently transfected using MNPs and the magnefect‐nano system significantly enhanced overall transfection efficiency. MNPs were not found to affect cell viability and/or function of the cells. Conclusion: Non‐viral transfection using MNPs and the magnefect‐nano system can be used to transfect MG‐63 cells and assist reporter gene delivery on a single cell basis, highlighting the wide potential of nanomagnetic gene transfection in gene therapy. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.