Polyethylenimine-dextran-coated magnetic nanoparticles loaded with miR-302b suppress osteosarcoma in vitro and in vivo.

Aim: We attempted to synthesize a magnetic gene carrier with poly(ethylenimine), dextran and iron oxide nanoparticles (PDIs) for miR-302b transfection in vitro and in vivo. Materials & methods: The nanoparticles were characterized for hydrodynamic properties, zeta potential and DNA-binding ability, evaluated by transmission electron microscopy. Cellular internalization, magnetofection efficiency and anti-osteosarcoma effects were investigated in osteosarcoma (OS) cells and OS-bearing nude mice. Results: PDIs were successfully prepared and showed mild cytotoxicity. A magnetic field efficiently enabled transport of PDI/pmiR302b to OS cells in OS-bearing nude mice, exerting the anti-osteosarcoma effect of miR-302b at the tumor site. The inhibitory effect of miR-302b on osteosarcoma-bearing nude mice may be attributed to regulation of the Hippo pathway through YOD1. Conclusion: Low-cytotoxic PDIs have potential applications as a magnetic transport carrier for future osteosarcoma treatment.