Biodistribution of 1.4‐ and 18‐nm Gold Particles in Rats

Abstract

1.4-nm gold nanoparticles (NPs) are observed to cross the air/blood barrier of the lungs much more efficiently than 18-nm gold NPs (see figure). The NP accumulation pattern in the secondary-target organs differs strongly from those seen after direct intravenous injection. From this, it is hypothesized that NPs interact dynamically with proteins and cells, which determines their accumulation in the various organs.