CARS microscopy for the visualization of micrometer-sized iron oxide MRI contrast agents in living cells

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Cell Biology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Micrometer-sized iron oxide particles (MPIOs) are promising contrast agents for cellular tracking using clinical Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
• Understanding the intracellular localization of MPIOs post-uptake is crucial for their application in vivo.
• Current techniques lack the ability to monitor MPIO uptake at the single-cell level in vivo.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the capability of coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microscopy for non-invasive, label-free imaging of MPIOs in living cells.
• To assess the potential of CARS microscopy for determining the intracellular localization of MPIOs with sub-micron resolution.

Main Methods:

• Utilized coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microscopy for imaging.
• Performed label-free, three-dimensional imaging of living cells.
• Visualized micrometer-sized iron oxide particles (MPIOs) and cellular structures simultaneously.

Main Results:

• CARS microscopy enabled non-invasive, label-free imaging of MPIOs in living cells with sub-micron resolution in 3D.
• Simultaneous visualization of cellular framework and MPIOs was achieved.
• MPIOs were clearly distinguished from other cellular components and localized intracellularly.

Conclusions:

• CARS microscopy is a powerful tool for label-free, high-resolution imaging of MPIOs within living cells.
• This technique overcomes limitations in monitoring MPIO intracellular localization, crucial for MRI-based cellular tracking.
• CARS microscopy facilitates a deeper understanding of MPIO-cell interactions for biomedical applications.