Exploring magnetoelectric nanoparticles for advanced nanoelectroporation and drug delivery: a preliminary in silico study

Leveraging on their ability to convert low external magnetic stimuli into high electrical responses, magnetoelectric nanoparticles (in the following, MENPs) can find promising applications in areas such as reversible nanoelectroporation (RNep) and drug delivery. In this study, the magnetoelectric behaviour of a single MENP is analysed in two different environments, such as the culture medium and the blood vessel wall, using an in silico approach. More specifically, a 2D axisymmetric model of a dual-phase nanoparticle, composed of a ferromagnetic core and a piezoelectric shell, was developed in COMSOL Multiphysics® 5.6. The main objective was the study of the MENP response to a wide range of static magnetic fields, ranging from a minimum of 2 mT to a maximum of 4 T. Key parameters, such as core magnetization, electric potential at the surface of the MENP, and magnetic-to-electric field conversion efficiency, were investigated, with the aim of optimizing the nanoplatform performance to achieve reversible cell membrane permeabilization by high-intensity electric fields. Results showed that localized electric fields useful for reversible nanoelectroporation (RNep) of cells can be generated in a controlled manner, by taking full advantage of these composite nanoparticles properties and by precisely tailoring the external source of stimulation. Our preliminary assessment is essential to gain insights into the potentialities of the use of MENPs as multifunctional devices that can not only increase cell membrane permeability, but also transport and release drugs to specific sites. In fact, such innovative nanoplatforms, could prove to be an efficient and effective solution, for example in cardiovascular medicine, where frequent interventions may pose general yet high risks to the patients.