Quantum dots bearing lectin-functionalized nanoparticles as a platform for in vivo brain imaging.

Abstract

Delivery of imaging agents to the brain is highly important for the diagnosis and treatment of central nervous system (CNS) diseases, as well as the elucidation of their pathophysiology. Quantum dots (QDs) provide a novel probe with unique physical, chemical, and optical properties, and become a promising tool for in vivo molecular and cellular imaging. However, their poor stability and low blood-brain barrier permeability severely limit their ability to enter into and act on their target sites in the CNS following parenteral administration. Here, we developed a QDs-based imaging platform for brain imaging by incorporating QDs into the core of poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(lactic acid) nanoparticles, which was then functionalized with wheat germ agglutinin and delivered into the brain via nasal application. The resulting nanoparticles, with high payload capacity, are water-soluble, stable, and showed excellent and safe brain targeting and imaging properties. With PEG functional terminal groups available on the nanoparticles surface, this nanoprobe allows for conjugation of various biological ligands, holding considerable potential for the development of specific imaging agents for various CNS diseases.

• Authors: Xiaoling Gao, Jun Chen, Jiyao Chen, Bingxian Wu, Hongzhuan Chen, Xinguo Jiang
• Journal: Bioconjugate chemistry (Bioconjug Chem) Vol. 19 Issue 11 Pg. 2189-95 (Nov 19 2008) ISSN: 1520-4812 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 18922029 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Wheat Germ Agglutinins

Topics

• Administration, Intranasal
• Animals
• Brain (metabolism)
• Diagnostic Imaging (instrumentation, methods)
• Feasibility Studies
• Mice
• Mice, Inbred BALB C
• Particle Size
• Protein Stability
• Quantum Dots
• Tissue Distribution
• Wheat Germ Agglutinins (administration & dosage, chemistry, metabolism, pharmacokinetics)