Cell Lysis, labeling efficacy and biodistribution of intravenously administered Technetium-99 m labeled multifunctional zirconia nanoparticles in animal model

Nanoparticles, to be used in biomedical applications, have been the subject of extensive investigation in recent years. Recently, zirconia and iron have gained significant relevance to the field due to their superior mechanical and structural qualities as well as their numerous biological applications. In this research, Fe3O4-stabilized zirconia nanopowders are fabricated using a low-cost sol–gel approach. Iron oxide sol is added in 1–10 wt% increments to a 0.1 M zirconia sol. The obtained crystallite size values match well with previously reported values for the tetragonally stable (t-zirconia) phase. Hardness values of approximately 1278 HV, along with fracture toughness values of ∼ 24.48 MPa.m-1/2 are observed for stable tetragonal zirconia. Results from cell lysis experiments indicate that the synthesized nanoparticles have the potential to combat cancerous cells. An encapsulation efficacy of up to ∼ 73% is observed after a 120-minute time period. Radio labeling techniques are employed to label the as-synthesized zirconia nanoparticles using Sodium Pertechnetate (Na99mTcO4) labeled radiopharmaceuticals, allowing for biodistribution assessment. Multiple CT scans of rabbits are performed to obtain accurate results and evaluate their survival. Studies show that radiolabeled nanoparticles are highly absorbed in the animals' bladders, making them a promising choice for tumor therapy. Various physical properties of the animals are periodically examined after administration of the nanoparticle-based injection for several months, and no abnormalities are found. The results obtained through these characterizations indicate that these nanoparticles can be used as future therapeutic agents as well as drug carriers.