Multifunctional Magnetic Nanoparticle Probes for Deep-Tissue Imaging

摘要

The goal of the DARPA-AFOSR project is to develop multifunctional magnetic nanoparticle probes for deep-tissue imaging using MRI. The specific objectives of the Phase 1 project include: (1) to functionalize iron-oxide magnetic nanoparticles for bioconjugation of oligonucleotides and peptides; (2) proof-of-concept demonstration of the signal transduction mechanism based on nanoprobe clustering on mRNA target; (3) to develop peptide-based delivery of magnetic nanoprobes into living cells with high delivery efficiency; (4) to perform preliminary MRI studies of detection sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio in solution and in cells. This innovative molecular imaging approach integrates in vivo delivery, targeting/sensing and signal transduction; it has the potential to revolutionize medical imaging, diagnosis, and therapeutics with many DoD applications.