Self-assembled magnetic liposomes from electrospun fibers

A new and facile route for preparing magnetic liposomes from electrospun fibers comprising the hydrophilic polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone K90, phosphatidyl choline and Fe3O4 nanoparticles is reported. The composite fibers were found to contain Fe3O4 particles dispersed relatively uniformly. Magnetic liposomes formed spontaneously via molecular self-assembly when the composite fibers were added to water. The liposomes were found to be generally well dispersed, and stable to degradation. Their size can be controlled by varying the Fe3O4 content of the fibers. The magnetic properties of the nanoparticles are maintained through the electrospinning and self-assembly processes, indicating that these materials maybe have very considerable potential in the development of magnetic drug delivery systems and other therapeutic or theranostic applications.