Tissue distribution of 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (MelQx) in two strains of male rats

Abstract

Albino and hooded male rats were administered ¹⁴C-labded 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (MeIQx) by gavage. The tissue distribution was investigated by means of whole-body autoradiography and liquid scintillation counting. MeIQx was rapidly absorbed from the alimentary tract and distributed to several tissues. The major predilection sites were the liver and kidneys. The amount of radioactivity decreased dramatically within a few days. However, unextractable radioactive material was still detectable in these organs 6 days after the administration.