Endovascular addressing improves the effectiveness of magnetic targeting of drug carrier. Comparison with the conventional administration method

Abstract

Many nanomedicine approaches are struggling to reach high enough effectiveness in delivery if applied systemically. The perspective is sought to explore the clinical practices currently used for localized treatment. In this study, we combine in vivo targeting of carriers sensitive to the external magnetic field with clinically used endovascular delivery to specific site. Fluorescent micron-size capsules made of biodegradable polymers and containing magnetite nanoparticles incorporated in the capsule wall were explored in vivo using Near-Infrared Fluorescence Live Imaging for Real-Time. Comparison of systemic (intravenous) and directed (intra-arterial) administration of the magnetic microcapsule targeting in the hindpaw vessels demonstrated that using femoral artery injection in combination with magnetic field exposure is 4 times more efficient than tail vein injection. Thus, endovascular targeting significantly improves the capabilities of nanoengineered drug delivery systems reducing the systemic side effects of therapy.

Keywords: Femoral artery; Lifetime imaging; Magnetic nanoparticles; Nanocomposite microcapsules; Tail vein injection.