Abstract

We prepared, characterized and studied the biodistribution of tamoxifen citrate (TMX) loaded cross-linked guar gum (GG) nanoparticles (NPs). NPs were prepared via a single step emulsion process and particle size evaluated. The extent of tissue distribution and retention following oral administration of TMX loaded GG NPs and TMX tablet in female albino mice was analyzed over a period of 48 hours. Till 48 hours, the particles remained detectable in both mammary and ovary tissue (estrogen receptors). Uptake and retention of TMX from NPs and tablet in mammary gland and ovary tissue changed with time. Results showed that the uptake and retention of NPs was more in the mammary gland between 24 - 48 hours (11.2% at 24 h; 4.65% at 48 h). As mammary gland is the target organ in breast cancer therapy, it may be concluded that the cross-linked GG NPs are capable of releasing the drug at the target and minimize the uptake and retention in non target tissue, the ovary (7.98% at 24 h; 1.9% at 48 h). Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) with time were measured. No abnormal changes in the liver enzymes were observed. GG NPs under study can be used as a drug carrier system for treating cancer.