LAUSR

Simple Summary Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) are highly efficient contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging for various types of tumors. This review focuses on the various approaches that can be used for selective targeting of MNPs towards a wide variety of solid tumors, with a specific emphasis on the surface modification that can affect the particles distribution in the tissue imparted by different targeting ligands for both in-vitro and in-vivo studies. Abstract Magnetic nanoparticles gained considerable attention in last few years due to their remarkable properties. Superparamaganetism, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, chemical inertness, and environmental friendliness are some of the properties that make iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) an ideal choice for biomedical applications. Along with being easily tuneable and a tailored surface for conjugation of IONPs, their physio-chemical and biological properties can also be varied by modifying the basic parameters for synthesis that enhances the additional possibilities for designing novel magnetic nanomaterial for theranostic applications. This review highlights the synthesis, surface modification, and different applications of IONPs for diagnosis, imaging, and therapy. Furthermore, it also represents the recent report on the application of IONPs as enzyme mimetic compounds and a contrasting agent, and its significance in the field as an anticancer and antimicrobial agent.