In vivo assessment of hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity and biodistribution using 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane-coated magnetic nanoparticles (APTS-MNPs) in ICR mice

The biocompatibility and biodistribution of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) in vivo are essential to ensure their safely clinical application. We have studied these aspects with our 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane-coated magnetic nanoparticles (APTS-MNPs) formulation, which can be used as magnetic induction hyperthermia media. Changes in tissue iron levels were analyzed after intraperitoneal injection of APTS-MNPs to ICR mice. Liver and kidney functions were tested. Heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney, testis, and brain were sectioned for pathological analysis. Biodistribution of iron in various body tissues changed with time but greater fraction of the injected iron localized in the liver and spleen than in other tissues. Serum showed an increase in AST and LDH following APTS-MNPs injection. Histological analyses of selected tissues showed no obvious abnormal changes. In conclusion, APTS-MNPs did not cause continuing changes in the liver and kidney function and thus can be safely used for in vivo application.