<p>A Review on the Biodistribution, Pharmacokinetics and Toxicity of Bismuth-Based Nanomaterials</p>

Abstract

Here, bismuth-based nanomaterials (Bi-based NMs) are introduced as promising theranostic agents to enhance image contrast as well as for the therapeutic gain for numerous diseases. However, understanding the interaction of such novel developed nanoparticles (NPs) within a biological environment is a requisite for the translation of any promising agent from the lab bench to the clinic. This interaction delineates the fate of NPs after circulation in the body. In an ideal setting, a nano-based therapeutic agent should be eliminated via the renal clearance pathway, meanwhile it should have specific targeting to a diseased organ to reach an effective dose and also to overcome off-targeting. Due to their clearance pathway, biodistribution patterns and pharmacokinetics (PK), Bi-based NMs have been found to play a determinative role to pass clinical approval and they have been investigated extensively in vivo to date. In this review, we expansively discuss the possible toxicity induced by Bi-based NMs on cells or organs, as well as biodistribution profiles, PK and the clearance pathways in animal models. A low cytotoxicity of Bi-based NMs has been found in vitro and in vivo, and along with their long-term biodistribution and proper renal clearance in animal models, the translation of Bi-based NMs to the clinic as a useful novel theranostic agent is promising to improve numerous medical applications.

Dye-loaded mesoporous polydopamine nanoparticles for multimodal tumor theranostics with enhanced immunogenic cell death

“…The in vivo biodistribution of therapeutic nanoagent is highly important to ensure targeted tumor accumulation and negligible off-target toxicity in vivo [ 40 ]. 4T1 mice model were established to trace the biodistribution of intravenously ( i.v. )…”

Bismuth, a Previously Less‐studied Element, Is Bursting into New Hotspots

“…Bi element itself is low toxic or non-toxic, but the toxicity of Bi compounds or composites is often affected by the other coexisting elements or groups. [18] As a result, it is preferred to cautiously assess the toxicity of Bi compounds or composites. Therefore, when applied on the skin and in vivo, are there any damages to normal cells or tissues?…”

“…However, some opinions view the use of Bi in pharmaceutical products as a questionable practice, especially when they are soluble in large quantities and applied chronically in children. Bi element itself is low toxic or non‐toxic, but the toxicity of Bi compounds or composites is often affected by the other coexisting elements or groups [18] . As a result, it is preferred to cautiously assess the toxicity of Bi compounds or composites.…”

Near‐Infrared Light‐Activatable Bismuth‐Based Nanomaterials for Antibacterial and Antitumor Treatment

“…[81] Notably, bismuthbased nanomaterials are promising "all-in-one" PTAs. [82][83][84][85] Li et al [86] synthesized metallic Bi nanocrystals via a facile chemical reducing approach from affordable and widely available bismuth (III) nitrate in D-(+)-glucose saturated 1,2-propanediol. The obtained Bi-PEG nanocrystals exhibit superior physiological stability, negligible toxicity, prolonged blood circulation half-life, and preferential tumor accumulation.…”

“…[ 81 ] Notably, bismuth‐based nanomaterials are promising “all‐in‐one” PTAs. [ 82–85 ] Li et al. [ 86 ] synthesized metallic Bi nanocrystals via a facile chemical reducing approach from affordable and widely available bismuth (III) nitrate in D‐(+)‐glucose saturated 1,2‐propanediol.…”