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Multiplexed Optical Imaging of Tumor-Directed Nanoparticles: A Review of Imaging Systems and Approaches
Yu Winston Wang1, Nicholas P Reder1,2, Soyoung Kang1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
Abstract:
In recent decades, various classes of nanoparticles have been developed for optical imaging of cancers. Many of these nanoparticles are designed to specifically target tumor sites, and specific cancer biomarkers, to facilitate the visualization of tumors. However, one challenge for accurate detection of tumors is that the molecular profiles of most cancers vary greatly between patients as well as spatially and temporally within a single tumor mass. To overcome this challenge, certain nanoparticles and imaging systems have been developed to enable multiplexed imaging of large panels of cancer biomarkers. Multiplexed molecular imaging can potentially enable sensitive tumor detection, precise delineation of tumors during interventional procedures, and the prediction/monitoring of therapy response. In this review, we summarize recent advances in systems that have been developed for the imaging of optical nanoparticles that can be heavily multiplexed, which include surface-enhanced Raman-scattering nanoparticles (SERS NPs) and quantum dots (QDs). In addition to surveying the optical properties of these various types of nanoparticles, and the most-popular multiplexed imaging approaches that have been employed, representative preclinical and clinical imaging studies are also highlighted.
Insights
Multiplexed molecular imaging using optical nanoparticles like SERS NPs and QDs offers a promising solution for accurate cancer detection and treatment monitoring by overcoming tumor heterogeneity. This approach enhances tumor visualization and personalization of cancer care.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology and Biomedical Imaging
- Optical Nanoparticle Development for Cancer Diagnostics
Background:
- Optical nanoparticles are crucial for cancer imaging, targeting tumor sites and biomarkers.
- Tumor heterogeneity poses a significant challenge for accurate cancer detection and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in multiplexed molecular imaging systems for optical nanoparticles.
- To highlight nanoparticles enabling heavily multiplexed imaging for enhanced cancer biomarker detection.
Main Methods:
- Survey of optical properties of multiplexed nanoparticles, including surface-enhanced Raman-scattering nanoparticles (SERS NPs) and quantum dots (QDs).
- Analysis of popular multiplexed imaging approaches.
- Review of preclinical and clinical imaging studies utilizing these technologies.
Main Results:
- Development of nanoparticle-based systems for multiplexed imaging of cancer biomarkers.
- Demonstration of enhanced tumor detection, delineation, and therapy response prediction/monitoring capabilities.
- Highlighting the potential of SERS NPs and QDs in advanced cancer imaging.
Conclusions:
- Multiplexed molecular imaging with optical nanoparticles addresses tumor heterogeneity for improved cancer diagnostics.
- These advanced imaging systems show significant promise for sensitive tumor detection and personalized cancer therapy.
