Bio‐distribution of superparagmetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION’s) in the pig (LB578)

Abstract

Manufactured nanomaterials have been shown to be beneficial in an array of applications, including diagnosis and targeted abolition of tumour cells. The biocompatibility and bio‐distribution of these particles is immensely important for targeted drug delivery and imaging. Therefore the aim of this study was to investigate qualitative bio‐distribution of SPION’s in the pig.Female landrace pigs (20‐25 kg; n=16) were sedated i.m. with ketamine (14 mg/kg) and xylazine (2.7 mg/kg) and maintained on a continuous infusion of sodium pentobarbital (induction 30 mg/kg; maintenance 6 mg/kg/h i.v.). Dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) coated nanoparticles (0.5, or 2 mg/kg respectively) were injected i.v. Blood samples were collected for a 5 hour period and stored for determination of iron using the particle electron paramagnetic resonance (pEPR) technique. Organs were harvested post mortem for MRI (1.5T) and histological evaluation.OD15 (2 mg/kg) has a half‐life of ~15 minutes in the circulation. Both doses of MF66 (0.5 and 2 mg/kg) were below detection. SPION’s accumulation was observed in the liver with MRI scans. Using Prussian blue staining, SPION’s were observed in the liver and spleen at higher doses and in the lungs at both doses. Our results suggest that further modifications may be required to enhance the biocompatibility of these particles in order to utilize them as diagnostic and therapeutic agents.Grant Funding Source: Framework Programme 7