Preparation and biodistribution of tyrosine modified multiwall carbon nanotubes

The functional modification of the outer surface of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is likely to improve their biocompatibility. Therefore, CNTs have attracted great attention not only in electrical, optical and mechanical applications but also in biological and pharmaceutical applications. Thus, it is important to examine the biodistribution and kinetics of the carbon-based nanotubes when they are introduced into living systems. Here, we synthesized and characterized tyrosine-functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs-Tyr), and assessed the biodistribution profile of CNTs-Tyr in mice, following three different administrations by the 125I radioisotope tracer method. CNTs-Tyr was delivered quickly around the entire body, and different absorbtion and biodistribution profiles of CNTs-Tyr were observed with different routes of administration. Following intravenous injection, CNTs-Tyr accumulated within 24 h mainly in the lungs and slightly in the spleen and liver, and may be eliminated primarily through the kidneys. After administration via gavage, most of the CNTs-Tyr were eliminated through the intestine, and rarely delivered into the organs. After intraperitoneal injection, CNTs-Tyr accumulated in the spleen and were rapidly eliminated from the other organs within 24 h. The blood circulation half-life of CNTs-Tyr was about 4.4 h. The behavior of CNTs-Tyr in mice is somewhat different from the results reported previously. This suggests that the functionalized group may affect the affinity of carbon nanotubes for particular organs. The results provide basic biological information for the biomedical application and risk assessment of CNTs.