RT Journal Article ID 4ffc85d94778e667 A1 Moghimi, S. Moein A1 Hunter, Christy T1 Capture of Stealth Nanoparticles by the Body’s Defences JF Critical Reviews™ in Therapeutic Drug Carrier Systems JO CRT YR 2001 FD 2001-12-01 VO 18 IS 6 OP 24 AB This article highlights and discusses our experience in the design, handling, and biological evaluation of long-circulating nanoparticles based on polyoxypropylene/polyoxyethylene copolymer nonionic surfactants. A frequently observed but ignored phenomenon following intravenous injection of such polymer-modified long-circulating colloidal systems is their eventual recognition and clearance by macrophages of the reticuloendothelial system. The pharmacokinetics as well as the tissue distribution of such so-called “stealth” nanoparticles are also altered after repeated intravenous injection in a time-dependent manner. An understanding of immunological and pathological factors that control the pharmacokinetic and biological behavior of long-circulating particles after single or repeated administration is therefore crucial for the design of a system with an optimal diagnostic and/or therapeutic performance. Therefore, we have also examined and discussed the concept of macrophage recognition of a “stealth-like nature” and factors that initiate this cascade. A critical discussion of the future of this interesting area of nano-biotechnology/engineering is also provided. PB Begell House LK https://www.dl.begellhouse.com/journals/3667c4ae6e8fd136,2dbee23b005233cf,4ffc85d94778e667.html