PhD Scientific Days 2026

Poster Session 3.J - Theoretical and Translational Medicine

Nanoparticle-assisted Cancer Therapies Using Non-ionizing Radiation

Name of the presenter

Molnár, Orsolya

Institute/workplace of the presenter

Semmelweis University

Authors

Orsolya Molnár¹
1: Semmelweis University

Text of the abstract

Introduction
Hyperthermia is an effective cancer treatment method that enhances the efficacy of conventional therapies. Approaches that combine non-ionizing radiation and nanoparticles are receiving increasing attention. Among these, magnetic hyperthermia induced by an alternating magnetic field (AMF) and near-infrared (NIR, 700–900 nm) photothermal therapy (PTT) are the most widely studied methods. Both therapies are based on the biological phenomenon that cancer cells are much more sensitive to high temperatures (41–45 °C) than healthy cells.
Aims
The aim of this study is to provide a brief overview of nanoparticle-based cancer therapies that use non-ionizing radiation, focusing on magnetic hyperthermia and PTT.
Methods
A literature survey was conducted, focusing on studies that use AMF or NIR to selectively heat tumor tissues using functional nanoparticles or nanocomposite systems.
Results
Magnetic nanoparticles are exposed to a high-frequency AMF, enabling them to convert magnetic energy into thermal energy quickly and efficiently. The heating process can be repeated multiple times. In composite systems (e.g., smart microgels), the local temperature increase induced by the AMF can simultaneously trigger the targeted release of drugs embedded in the membrane.
NIR penetrates soft tissues to a depth of several centimeters and, in the presence of photothermal materials (e.g., gold nanostructures), can be effectively converted into localized heat. This causes tumor cell damage while maintaining high spatial selectivity. NIR-responsive systems also enable externally controlled drug delivery, in which heat-induced structural changes in the carrier matrix allow for controlled release. Due to its penetration depth, NIR-based therapy can be applied to treat various solid tumors.
Conclusion
Nanotherapies based on non-ionizing radiation offer controllable and localized treatment strategies. NIR provides high precision but has limited penetration, while AMF allows for deeper activation but has lower spatial selectivity. Combining these with existing therapeutic methods represents a promising approach for improving therapeutic efficacy and reducing systemic toxicity.