Synthesis of copper ferrite-decorated bioglass nanoparticles: investigation of magnetic properties, biocompatibility, and drug release behaviour

Magnetic bioglass composites have attracted considerable attention due to their versatile applications in cancer treatment, drug delivery, and bone regeneration. In this research, the Stöber method was used to synthesize homogeneous, spherical SiO₂-CaO bioglass nanoparticles, which were then coated with copper ferrite nanoparticles using liquid phase deposition. Various concentrations of the copper precursor (3 M, 4 M, 5 M, and 6 M) were tested to find the optimal level for coating bioglass particles with CuFe₂O₄ nanoparticles. The 5 M copper precursor sample showed the best results, with the lowest CuO and hematite impurities in the X-ray diffraction analysis and the highest saturation magnetization of 7.5 emu/g in the Vibrating Sample Magnetometry test. Structural and morphological studies were conducted on the bioglass particles before and after coating to confirm the deposition of copper ferrite on their surfaces. Cytotoxicity assays on MG-63 osteoblast cells with varying concentrations of copper ferrite-coated bioglass confirmed biocompatibility and showed cell proliferation. The ibuprofen absorption and release behavior of both bare and CuFe₂O₄-coated bioglass was analyzed, and the drug release profile matched the Korsmeyer-Peppas model, indicating the Fickian release mechanism. The formed magnetic bioglass nanocomposites show high potential for drug delivery application, with prospective use for biomedical applications.