Eroglu, HayrettinAyan, Arif KursadYenilmez, Ayse2026-04-022026-04-0220261420-304910.3390/molecules310406542-s2.0-105031433285https://hdl.handle.net/123456789/30062https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31040654Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are submicron colloidal systems widely investigated as drug carriers; however, their intrinsic biodistribution properties are also critical when SLNs are considered for diagnostic imaging. In the present proof-of-concept study, drug-free SLNs were evaluated exclusively as a radiolabeled imaging agent rather than as a drug delivery system. SLNs were radiolabeled with Technetium-99m (99mTc), and their in vivo biodistribution was investigated using gamma camera imaging, ex vivo organ counting, and confocal microscopy. SLNs were prepared by a microemulsion-low-temperature solidification method and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Radiolabeling efficiency was determined by instant thin-layer chromatography (ITLC) and exceeded 95%. Following intravenous administration in a rabbit model, dynamic scintigraphic imaging demonstrated predominant uptake in the liver and spleen. These findings were quantitatively confirmed by ex vivo biodistribution analysis at 4 h post-injection and qualitatively supported by confocal microscopy of liver and spleen tissues. The results indicate that 99mTc-labeled SLNs behave as RES-targeting radiocolloids and may serve as potential agents for liver-spleen scintigraphy.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/openAccessBiodistributionDrug DeliveryTc-99mScintigraphySolid Lipid NanoparticleArticle