Heat-Induced Radiolabeling of Nanoparticles for Monocyte Tracking by PET

Heat-induced radiolabeling (HIR) yielded Zr-89-Feraheme (FH) nanoparticles (NPs) that were used to determine NP pharmacokinetics (PK) by positron emission tomography (PET). Standard uptake values indicated a fast hepatic uptake that corresponded to blood clearance, and a second, slow uptake process by lymph nodes and spleen. By cytometry, NPs were internalized by circulating monocytes and monocytes invitro. Using an IV injection of HIR Zr-89-FH (rather than invitro cell labeling), PET/PK provided a view of monocyte trafficking, a key component of the immune response.