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Realizing real-time optical molecular imaging in peripheral nerve tissue via Rhodamine B
Jinzheng Wei1,2, Xinyu Guo2,3, Yixi Wang4
1Department of Orthopaedics, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China.
Frontiers in Medicine
|December 11, 2024
Summary
Rhodamine B enables real-time optical molecular imaging of peripheral nerves (PNs) for surgical guidance. This study demonstrates its potential for clinical translation in preventing nerve injury.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Optics
- Molecular Imaging
- Surgical Navigation
Background:
- Iatrogenic nerve injury is a significant surgical complication.
- Real-time peripheral nerve (PN) imaging is crucial for surgical safety.
- Optical molecular imaging (OMI) advancements support PN fluorescence imaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To achieve real-time OMI of PNs using Rhodamine B.
- To determine the optimal formulation and dosage of Rhodamine B for PN imaging.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Rhodamine B for in vivo PN imaging.
Main Methods:
- Rhodamine B fluorescence spectra were measured in various formulations (PBS, NS, GS, FBS).
- Signal-to-background ratio (SBR) was analyzed to optimize Rhodamine B dose and formulation.
- Histological studies and in vivo imaging in mice were conducted to assess binding sites, optimal imaging time, and toxicity.
Main Results:
- Rhodamine B exhibited excitation/emission peaks at 554/576 nm, with optimal SBR in PBS at 8 nmol.
- Fluorescence signals concentrated on neuronal cell membranes in ex vivo and in vivo studies.
- Peak nerve fluorescence and SBR were observed at 24 hours post-injection, lasting up to 48 hours with minimal transient lung toxicity.
Conclusions:
- Rhodamine B facilitates effective fluorescence imaging of peripheral nerves.
- The study supports Rhodamine B's potential for clinical translation in surgery.
