Photonic Explorers Based on Multifunctional Nanoplatforms: In Vitro and In Vivo Biomedical Applications

摘要

Photonic explorers for biomedical use with biologically localized embedding (PEBBLEs) have been developed to explore, image and monitor, microspectroscopically, live cell processes, with minimal physical and chemical interferences. The design, employing a nanoparticle made of a biologically inert matrix as a platform for loading the active molecular components by encapsulation or covalent attachment, is universal, flexible and allows for facile interchange of its components. The same design concept has been applied to build a multifunctional nanoplatform for cancer diagnosis and therapy. This nanoplatform has a polyacrylamide (PAA) core containing photosensitizers and MRI contrast agents, with a surface-coating consisting of both molecular targeting groups and polyethylene glycol (PEG), for the recognition of the tumor vasculature and for controllable particle residence time, respectively. The PEBBLEs have been successfully applied in vitro for intracellular measurements and imaging of important ionic and molecular species. In vivo studies in a rat 9L gliosarcoma model showed significant MRI contrast enhancement and photodynamic therapeutic efficacy with targeted nanoplatforms, demonstrating significant promise for their use as a combined therapeutic and diagnostic tool for cancer.