Numerical Simulation of Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields and Gradients for Magnetomechanical Applications

This study aims to identify optimal parameters for the clinical implementation of magnetic fields in therapeutic contexts, with a particular focus on in vitro magneto-mechanical actuation in biological systems. This approach relies on the transduction of magnetic energy into mechanical stress at low frequencies (<<100 Hz). Accordingly, the investigation centers on evaluating the magnetic field gradients responsible for initiating the motion of intracellular magnetic nanoparticles and the resulting mechanical forces acting upon them. To achieve this, a novel, custom-built, and highly adaptable three-dimensional turntable system was designed, calibrated, and implemented. This apparatus allows the generation of magnetic fields with precisely tunable amplitude and frequency, enabling controlled activation of magneto-mechanical mechanisms. In vitro experiments using this device facilitated the exposure of cancer cells to well-characterized magnetic fields, thereby inducing mechanical stimulation in the presence of nanoparticles distributed within intracellular or extracellular environments. Quantitative measurements of magnetic field intensities were performed, providing estimations of the forces exerted by magnetic nanoparticles with diverse physical characteristics (phase, size, and shape) under varying magnetic field gradients.