Protein Corona Formation on Surface-modified SPIO Nanoparticles: Effects of pH, Coating and Incubation Time

Abstract

Aims: The goal of this review is to look into how the protein corona forms and affects superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIO NPs). It will focus on how changes to the surface, pH levels, and incubation time affect their biological identity and biomedical performance. Study Design: This is a narrative review of recent studies on biological fluids, protein corona, nanoparticles, and SPIO NP. Place and Duration of Study: The review took place at the Department of Dialysis Technique at Northern Technical University from January to May 2025. Methodology: The scientific literature was collected from ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Scopus. The review concentrated on protein corona formation and was grounded in theoretical and applied research on SPIO NPs and biological fluids. We assessed the effects of surface chemistry, pH, and incubation time on nanoparticle behaviour. They were analysed to demonstrate how recent developments in computer modelling and imaging aid in our comprehension of corona dynamics. Results: SPIO NPs rapidly form a protein corona in biological fluids, which alters their physicochemical characteristics and conceals their surface features. These alterations affect how well they work as medications, how long they remain in the body, how the immune system responds, and how well cells absorb them. Protein binding was impacted by surface modifications such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) coating, charge, and targeted ligands. The corona layers were able to shift form as a result of pH changes over longer incubation periods. The design of SPIO NPs for biomedical applications, such as targeted drug delivery and hyperthermia therapy, has been made simpler by experimental findings and predictive computer models. Conclusion: Designing SPIO NPs can be improved by knowing how protein corona formation works. Clinical outcomes, immunogenicity, and nanoparticle targeting are all enhanced by regulating surface characteristics, environmental factors, and exposure duration.