In vitro biological activities of anionic gamma-Fe2O3 nanoparticles on human melanoma cells.

Three magnetic fluid (MF) samples containing gamma-Fe2O3 (maghemite) nanoparticles surface-coated with either meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA), citric acid or lauric acid were prepared, characterized, and assessed for their cytotoxic potential on the human SK-MEL-37 melanoma cell line. Ultra-structural analysis was also performed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In vitro cytotoxicity was evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay.