The particles are produced in the size range of around 10 nanometers, have powerful superparamagnetic properties, are coated with dextran, and are fully water soluble and biologically tolerable. The A and B sites may be substituted with other elements to achieve various desired effects.

The particles can be conjugated to targeting proteins and can be activated at a distance by magnetic or radiofrequency fields. They can carry stably included therapeutic elements, radionuclides for local brachytherapy, and for imaging. They remain dissolved when centrifuged, but become fully immobilized in polymerized hydrogels.