Biodistribution of nanoparticles: Initial considerations

Nanotechnology is attracting increasing attention worldwide. This study was made use of modern technology to decipher most of the intriguing biological aspects of nanoparticles. Labeling with technetium-99 m (Tc-99m) of six nanoparticles using different compositions and formulations, as well as complete biodistribution studies in mice was done. The results showed that the behaviors of nanoparticles were very different from each other. Mesoporous silica showed a high affinity for lung tissue, whereas polymeric nanoparticles were rapidly recognized and metabolized by the liver. The six nanoparticles showed different renal clearance times, suggesting that their area mechanisms of action were related to interaction and solubility. The labeling process in all samples showed similar results (all >99%). Biodistribution was demonstrated to be important for the study of nanoparticles, and could be used to predict the possible mechanism of action of nanoparticles. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.