Magnetically modulated therapeutic systems.

Magnetically targeted drug delivery by particulate carriers is an efficient method of delivering drugs to localized disease sites, such as tumors. High concentrations of chemotherapeutic or radiological agents can be achieved near the target site without any toxic effects to normal surrounding tissue. Non-targeted applications of magnetic microspheres and nanospheres include their use as contrast agents (MRI) and as drug reservoirs that can be activated by a magnet applied outside the body. Historic and current applications of magnetic microspheres will be discussed, as well as future directions and problems to be overcome for the efficient and beneficial use of magnetic carriers in clinical practice. More information about the field and an extensive bibliography is available at "."