PLGA-PEG multifunctional nanoparticles for simultaneous drug delivery and imaging by MRI and fluorescence microscopy

摘要

This work deals with the synthesis of multifunctional nanoparticles based on biocompatible di-block copolymer (PLGA-PEG) via an emulsion-evaporation method. To enable their visualization, these nanoparticles can be loaded with iron oxide nanoparticles for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and/or quantum dots for fluorescent microscopy. A therapeutic agent, Indomethacin, can also be loaded and released. The influence of synthesis parameters on nanoparticle size (in the range 70-150 nm) has been controlled to achieve specific cellular interactions avoiding possible immuno-response. These multifunctional nanoparticles possess excellent photoemission properties for fluorescent microscopy and enhanced contrast efficiency for T_2 MRI imaging compared to available agents used today. In-vitro experiments confirm the low cytotoxicity of such nanoparticles and their excellent visualization properties by MRI and fluorescence microscopy in cells and biological tissues.