6. Nanoparticle distribution in the body, the limits of the concept

In the context of targeted delivery of drugs or nanoparticles for cell heating, the limits of the targeting concept are quickly reached, as the polymeric support to which the antibodies enabling targeting are generally attached is recognized as foreign by the organism.

Particle distribution can be random, depending on the route of introduction into the body. Nanoparticles introduced intravenously, or systemically, are sequestered in the lungs, liver and spleen, limiting their use by this route. It is therefore much safer to concentrate nanoparticles by in situ injection. Magnetic nanoparticles, like all foreign bodies introduced into the body, induce a foreign body response; the particles are then phagocytized by cells in charge of their elimination, which migrate along the lymphatic pathways, leading to dissemination of the nanoparticles in the lymph nodes (figure...