ABSTRACT
Iron oxide nanoparticles (NPs) have a broad array of clinical applications, which make them a hugely attractive model as novel clinical therapeutics. Unfortunately, in recent years, many initially successful iron oxide formulations have been discontinued as immunotoxicity drawbacks contributed to their demise. Unintentional interactions with many components of the immune system are discussed within this chapter including the coagulation system, red blood cells, serum proteins and an array of leukocytes in order to decipher the true extent of this downfall and the potential precautions to take during development and testing. The hurdle of endotoxin contamination and sterility along with assays for its detection are discussed in detail. It is hoped that getting over the hurdle of immunotoxicity will enable iron oxide NPs to reach their true clinical potential in the future.
