Magnetic nanodisks for therapy of malignant neoplasms

The steady increase in cancer incidence, leading to high mortality and disability rates among the working-age population, underscores the importance of developing innovative therapeutic approaches. One promising strategy is magnetically guided microsurgery of individual tumor cells using functionalized magnetic nanostructures. Among different types of magnetic particles, nanodiscs demonstrate the greatest potential owing to their unique magnetic properties. Their capacity for modification with targeting molecules allows the development of highly specific systems for selective action on tumor cells. This review assesses the prospects of applying functionalized magnetic nanodiscs (referred to as a smart nanoscalpel) for the selective destruction of malignant cells. Materials and methods included a systematic analysis of scientific publications from 2022 to 2025 in PubMed using the keywords magnetic nanodiscs, malignant neoplasms, and magnetic nanoparticles. Particular attention is given to the mechanisms by which nanodiscs, under the influence of an alternating magnetic field, can selectively destroy tumor cells whereas preserving the viability of surrounding healthy cells. The analysis highlights the considerable potential of targeted magnetic nanodiscs as a promising adjuvant tool for the selective elimination of residual tumor cells in the postoperative period, as well as for the treatment of disseminated metastatic foci. However, translation of the magnetomechanical approach from experimental research into clinical practice requires comprehensive preclinical studies, including optimization of the physicochemical parameters of nanodiscs, thorough evaluation of efficacy and safety, and the development of standardized application protocols.