Yin-Yang-like induced mechanical torques of AMF-driven ICNPs leading cell death in HEP-G2 liver cancer

Iron Carbide magnetic nanoparticles (ICNPs) are produced with tunable phase structures and sizes to target and treat HEP-G2 liver cancer cells under applied alternating magnetic field (AMF). Crystal structure measurement reveals different phases of iron carbide, including θ-Fe 3 C, h-Fe 5 C 2 , and o-Fe 7 C 3 tailored by Fe:C ratios which are confirmed by TEM analysis too. Morphology measurements reveal tuning in particles nucleation revealing different sizes ranging 35-154 nm for different phase structures with narrow size distributions. Magnetic properties reveal ferromagnetic behavior with M S ranging from 93 to 130 emu/g and H C ranging from 200 to 550 Oe for all prepared samples. Hyperthermia experiments are performed for all samples dispersed in water revealing low SAR values with minimal thermal effects under clinical conditions of applied AMF. Confocal microscopy and flow cytometry confirm rapid and efficient internalization of the ICNPs in HEP-G2 cells. A considerable 63% reduction in cell viability is observed in HEP-G2 cells after implementing an AMF at a frequency of 164 kHz and an amplitude of 150 Oe. Cell viability is evaluated longitudinally on Days 1, 3, and 6 to assess longer-term treatment effects and cellular responses to single and repeated AMF exposures. The ICNPs-Driven cell death mechanisms under AMF are discussed by estimating the induced mechanical forces and opposite/complementary torques like Yin-Yang philosophy. This leads to semi-rotation of the ICNPs under AMF causing apoptosis and necrosis cell death. The results indicate a viable pathway for ICNPs to be used for AMF-Driven nanoparticle for liver cancer treatments.