Abstract
In this study, magnetite nanoparticles were prepared and coated with poly(ethylene glycol) terminated by alendronate to ensure firm binding to the iron oxide surface. Magnetic nanoparticles, designated as magnetite coated with poly(ethylene glycol)-alendronate (Fe(3)O(4)@PEG-Ale), were characterized in terms of number-average (D(n)) and hydrodynamic (D(h)) size, ζ-potential, saturation magnetization, and composition. The effect of particles on blood pressure, vascular functions, nitric oxide (NO), and superoxide production in the tissues of spontaneously hypertensive rats, as well as the effect on red blood cell (RBC) parameters, was investigated after intravenous administration (1 mg Fe(3)O(4)/kg of body weight). Results showed that Fe(3)O(4)@PEG-Ale particles did negatively affect blood pressure, heart rate and RBC deformability, osmotic resistance and NO production. In addition, Fe(3)O(4)@PEG-Ale did not alter functions of the femoral arteries. Fe(3)O(4)@PEG-Ale induced increase in superoxide production in the kidney and spleen, but not in the left heart ventricle, aorta and liver. NO production was reduced only in the kidney. In conclusion, the results suggest that acute intravenous administration of Fe(3)O(4)@PEG-Ale did not produce negative effects on blood pressure regulation, vascular function, and RBCs in hypertensive rats.