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Tissue distribution of amphotericin B lipid complex in laboratory animals

S J Olsen1, M R Swerdel, B Blue

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-4000.

Insights

Amphotericin B lipid complex (ABLC) concentrates in the liver, spleen, and lungs after intravenous administration in animal models. This antifungal agent shows favorable tissue distribution with minimal toxicity in preclinical studies.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Mycology
  • Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

  • Amphotericin B lipid complex (ABLC) is an investigational antifungal agent for serious fungal infections.
  • ABLC is a complex of amphotericin B with lipids, not a true liposome, with a particle size of 1.6-6.0 microns.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the tissue distribution of amphotericin B after administration of amphotericin B lipid complex (ABLC).
  • To evaluate the toxicity profile of ABLC in preclinical animal models.

Main Methods:

  • Tissue distribution of ABLC was assessed in mice and rats following intravenous (i.v.) or intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration.
  • Amphotericin B concentrations were measured in various tissues and plasma over time.
  • Toxicity was evaluated through clinical signs and liver/kidney function tests after repeated dosing.

Main Results:

  • Following i.v. administration, amphotericin B predominantly accumulated in the reticuloendothelial system, particularly the liver, lung, and spleen.
  • Plasma concentrations of amphotericin B remained consistently low after i.v. ABLC treatment.
  • i.v. administration resulted in significantly higher tissue concentrations compared to i.p. administration.
  • Repeated daily dosing of ABLC for 14 days showed no overt toxicity and only transient changes in liver and kidney function.

Conclusions:

  • Amphotericin B lipid complex exhibits favorable tissue distribution, concentrating in key organs of the reticuloendothelial system after i.v. administration.
  • The i.v. route of administration leads to enhanced tissue drug levels compared to the i.p. route.
  • ABLC demonstrates a promising safety profile in preclinical studies, with minimal toxicity observed even after prolonged treatment.

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