Biocompatible zwitterionic copolymer-stabilized magnetite nanoparticles: a simple one-pot synthesis, antifouling properties and biomagnetic separation.

A simple one-pot synthesis of biocompatible and antifouling magnetite nanoparticles (FeONPs) was developed. The process involves co-precipitation and coating of zwitterionic copolymer poly[(methacrylic acid)--(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine)] (PMAMPC). The influence of one-step and two-step coating methods on the performance of modified FeONP was investigated.