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Multiple functional nanoprobe for contrast-enhanced bimodal cellular imaging and targeted therapy
Hong-Min Meng1, Limin Lu2, Xu-Hua Zhao3
1†Molecular Sciences and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory for Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center for Chemistry and Molecular Medicine, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China.
This study introduces a novel nanoprobe for enhanced cancer diagnosis and therapy. The multifunctional system utilizes two-photon fluorescence microscopy (TPFM) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for deep-tissue imaging and targeted drug delivery.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Oncology
Background:
- One-photon fluorescence theranostics are common for cancer monitoring.
- Two-photon fluorescence microscopy (TPFM) offers superior deep-tissue imaging and resolution for early cancer diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a multifunctional nanoprobe for enhanced bimodal imaging and targeted cancer therapy.
- To utilize TPFM and MRI for improved cancer diagnosis and monitoring.
- To achieve synergistic therapeutic effects through combined chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a nanoprobe comprising two-photon dye-doped mesoporous silica nanoparticles (TPD-MSNs), MnO2 nanosheets, and cancer cell-targeting aptamers.
- Utilizing aptamers for targeted cellular internalization of TPD-MSNs.
- Employing MnO2 nanosheets as gatekeepers, fluorescence quenchers, and MRI contrast agents.
- Triggering drug release (doxorubicin and Chlorin e6) via intracellular glutathione reduction of MnO2.
Main Results:
- The nanoprobe demonstrated successful internalization into target cancer cells guided by aptamers.
- MnO2 reduction by glutathione enhanced TP fluorescence and MRI signals, enabling contrast-enhanced imaging.
- Co-delivery of doxorubicin and Chlorin e6 resulted in synergistic chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy, significantly improving therapeutic efficacy.
Conclusions:
- The developed nanoprobe offers a promising platform for advanced cancer theranostics.
- Bimodal imaging capabilities (TPFM and MRI) facilitate early cancer diagnosis and monitoring.
- The targeted drug delivery and synergistic therapeutic approach enhance treatment outcomes for cancer.

