Cubosomes for in vivo fluorescence lifetime imaging

Area of Science:

• Biomedical imaging
• Nanotechnology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cubosomes are novel nanocarriers with potential in drug delivery and imaging.
• Fluorescence optical imaging offers high sensitivity for biological studies.
• Developing efficient and safe contrast agents for in vivo imaging is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the feasibility of using monoolein-based cubosomes for in vivo fluorescence optical imaging.
• To evaluate the contrast enhancement and chemospecific capabilities of cubosomes in a living animal model.
• To assess the biodistribution and detectability of the dye within cubosomes in vivo.

Main Methods:

• Preparation and characterization of monoolein-based cubosomes.
• In vivo administration of cubosomes in a healthy mouse model.
• Time-resolved fluorescence measurements and lifetime analysis.
• Analysis of dye accumulation and distribution in major organs, particularly the liver.

Main Results:

• Monoolein-based cubosomes were successfully used for in vivo fluorescence imaging.
• The formulation provided high efficiency for exogenous contrast in near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging.
• Lifetime analysis of fluorescence in vivo allowed differentiation between free dye and dye encapsulated within cubosomes.
• Rapid accumulation of cubosomes was observed primarily in the liver.

Conclusions:

• Monoolein-based cubosomes represent a promising platform for in vivo fluorescence imaging.
• The non-cytotoxic formulation offers efficient contrast enhancement and valuable chemospecific information.
• This study establishes a proof of principle for cubosome applications in biomedical imaging.