PC12 Interaction with Magnetic Nanotubes: Effects on Viability, Cell Differentiation and Cell Translocation Induced by a Magnetic Field

In this paper we used Multi Wall Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) containing 3% of residuals and impurities of Fe, Al, and Zn. MWCNTs, by virtue of Fe at their tips, are able to respond to the effects of external magnetic fields. We demonstrated that MWCNTs interact with PC12 cells without compromising their viability and differentiation with outgrowth of neurites. We also document that when exposed to a magnetic field, both undifferentiated and differentiated PC12 cells cultured in CNT-containing medium solution are able to move towards the magnetic source.