Distribution of PLGA nanoparticles in chinchilla cochleae

OBJECTIVES: To study the distribution of polylactic/glycolic acid-encapsulated iron oxide nanoparticles (PLGA-NPs) in chinchilla cochleae after application on the round window membrane (RWM). STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Six chinchillas (12 ears) were equally divided into controls (no treatments) and experimentals (PLGA-NP with or without magnetic exposure). After 40 minutes of PLGA-NP placement on the RWM, perilymph was withdrawn from the scala tympani. The RWM and cochleae were fixed with 2.5% glutaraldehyde and processed for transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS: Nanoparticles were found in cochleae with or without exposure to magnet forces appearing in the RWM, perilymph, endolymph, and multiple locations in the organ of Corti. Electron energy loss spectroscopy confirmed iron elements in nanoparticles. CONCLUSION: The nanoparticles were distributed throughout the inner ear after application on the chinchilla RWM, with and without magnetic forces. SIGNIFICANCE: PLGA-NP applied to the RWM may have potential for sustained therapy to the inner ear. (c) 2007 American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation. All rights reserved.