Determination of Paclitaxel Distribution in Solid Tumors by Nano-Particle Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging

Lavinia Morosi, Pietro Spinelli, Massimo Zucchetti, Francesca Pretto, Andrea Carrà, Maurizio D'Incalci, Raffaella Giavazzi, Enrico Davoli

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55 Scopus citations

Abstract

A sensitive, simple and reproducible protocol for nanoparticle-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging technique is described. The use of commercially available TiO2 nanoparticles abolishes heterogeneous crystallization, matrix background interferences and enhances signal detection, especially in the low mass range. Molecular image normalization was based on internal standard deposition on tissues, allowing direct comparison of drug penetration and distribution between different organs and tissues. The method was applied to analyze the distribution of the anticancer drug paclitaxel, inside normal and neoplastic mouse tissue sections. Spatial resolution was good, with a linear response between different in vivo treatments and molecular imaging intensity using therapeutic drug doses. This technique distinguishes the different intensity of paclitaxel distribution in control organs of mice, such as liver and kidney, in relation to the dose. Animals treated with 30 mg/kg of paclitaxel had half of the concentration of those treated with 60 mg/kg. We investigated the spatial distribution of paclitaxel in human melanoma mouse xenografts, following different dosage schedules and found a more homogeneous drug distribution in tumors of mice given repeated doses (5×8 mg/kg) plus a 60 mg/kg dose than in those assigned only a single 60 mg/kg dose. The protocol can be readily applied to investigate anticancer drug distribution in neoplastic lesions and to develop strategies to optimize and enhance drug penetration through different tumor tissues.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article numbere72532
JournalPloS one
Volume8
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 26 2013
Externally publishedYes

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