The p-cyclodextrin assemblied magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (beta-CD-MNPs) were successfully fabricated via a layer-by-layer method. Possessing an average size 14 nm, good stability and super-paramagnetic response (Ms 64 emu/g),the resultant nanocomposites could be served as a versatile biocompatible platform for selective loading, targeted delivery and pH-responsive release of stereoisomeric doxorubicin (DOX) and epirubicin (EPI). H-1-nuclear magnetic resonance (H-1 NMR) and the computer simulation further give the evidence that partial anthracene ring of drug molecule is included by beta-CD. In addition, non-toxic beta-CD-MNPs have excellent biocompatibility on MCF-7 cells, and cellular uptake indicate that different amounts of DOX or EPI can be transported to targeting site and released from the internalized carriers. The results demonstrate that as-prepared beta-CD-MNPs could be a very promising vehicle for DOX and EPI. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.