Abstract: Methods for enhancing intracellular uptake of active agents by inducing temporary pore formation in a cell membrane are described. The methods generally comprise introducing nanoparticles to a cell in vivo, ex vivo, or in cell culture to magnetic nanoparticles that are taken up into the cell interior. The methods further comprise introducing active agents to the cell. A magnetic field is applied to the cell for targeted excitation of the internalized magnetic nanoparticles to induce temporary pore formation in the cell membrane, such that the active agent is taken up in an increased amount and/or at an increased rate by the cell.

Abstract: The present invention provides multifunctional nanoplatforms for assessing the activity of a protease in vivo or in vitro, along with methods of imaging and detecting the presence of cancerous or precancerous tissues, and the therapeutic treatment thereof, including monitoring of treatment. The diagnostic nanoplatforms comprise nanoparticles and are linked to each other or other particles via an oligopeptide linkage that comprises a consensus sequence specific for the target protease. Cleavage of the sequence by the target protease can be detected using various sensors, and the diagnostic results can be correlated with cancer prognosis. Individual unlinked nanoplatforms are also adaptable for therapeutic hyperthermia treatment of the cancerous tissue.