Optical emission spectroscopy as a tool for the biodistribution investigation of cobalt-ferrite nanoparticles in mice

This study reports on the biodistribution investigation of two magnetic samples both based on cobalt-ferrite nanoparticles, a magnetic fluid sample (CoMF) and a stealth magnetoliposome polyethylene glycol-monolaurate (PEG-ML). Morphology observations and iron and cobalt concentrations were evaluated after treatment of mice upon intravenous injection. Both magnetic samples had an extended distribution throughout all investigated organs. CoMF was quickly eliminated mainly by the fecal via whereas PEG-ML was retained longer in the circulation and slowly eliminated. These differences are probably due to the presence of polyethylene glycol on the PEG-ML surface, recognized to be responsible for the internalization delay of nanoparticles.