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Near-Infrared Imaging of Localized Longitudinal Nanoparticle Transport in Living Animals
Chenxi Duan1,2,3, Meiling Yan1, Tingting Zuo1
1CAS Key Laboratory of Interfacial Physics and Technology, Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, China.
Small Methods
|June 19, 2025
Summary
Near-infrared imaging visualizes nanoparticle transport after acupoint injection. This method reveals localized, sustained delivery with minimal systemic spread, offering a new tool for meridian-based therapies.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Imaging
- Nanotechnology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Conventional imaging limits visualization of acupoint injection dynamics.
- Near-infrared (NIR) imaging offers deep tissue penetration and real-time tracking.
- Experimental validation of NIR imaging for acupoint transport is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate NIR imaging for visualizing in vivo transport after acupoint injection.
- To compare nanoparticle and small molecule transport dynamics.
- To establish a framework for meridian-based substance delivery research.
Main Methods:
- Utilized NIR imaging in an acupoint-injection mouse model.
- Employed three NIR fluorophores: Cy5, TDN-Cy5, and Ag2S nanocrystals.
- Quantified nanoparticle retention and systemic distribution.
Main Results:
- NIR imaging successfully visualized localized, longitudinal transport along tissue pathways.
- Nanoparticles showed significantly longer retention than small molecules.
- Nanoparticle systemic distribution was ≈1/50th of intravenous injection.
Conclusions:
- NIR imaging is effective for visualizing acupoint-associated transport dynamics.
- Acupoint injection facilitates directional, sustained delivery of nanoparticles.
- This approach has potential for translational biomedical applications in meridian-based delivery.
