Near-Infrared AIE Probe for Cancer Cell Imaging and Therapeutic Applications

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Oncology

Background:

• Near-infrared (NIR) aggregation-induced emission (AIE) luminogens are advanced materials for cancer diagnosis, imaging, and therapy.
• AIE materials offer advantages over traditional fluorophores, including deep-tissue imaging and photobleaching resistance.
• These materials are crucial for real-time monitoring and healthcare applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and investigate the antiproliferative potential of a novel NIR AIE molecule, 3T.
• To explore 3T's efficacy in targeting and inhibiting breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231).
• To assess 3T's potential for cancer imaging and therapeutic applications.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of the NIR AIE molecule 3T.
• In silico target prediction and molecular docking studies.
• In vitro antiproliferative assays, cellular internalization, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and apoptosis induction studies.
• Flow cytometry and tumor spheroid treatment.

Main Results:

• 3T exhibited strong NIR emission (600-800 nm) in aqueous media.
• In silico analysis identified potential protein targets and binding affinities.
• In vitro studies confirmed efficient cellular uptake, dose-dependent reduction in cell viability (IC50 values of 32.26 μM for MCF-7 and 35.75 μM for MDA-MB-231), increased ROS levels, and apoptosis induction.
• 3T demonstrated effectiveness against tumor spheroids.

Conclusions:

• The NIR AIEgen 3T possesses significant antiproliferative activity against breast cancer cells.
• 3T shows stability, imaging capabilities, and induces apoptosis, making it a promising candidate for cancer therapy.
• This AIE material holds potential for advancing cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies.