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Targeted Molecular MRI of Colorectal Cancer by Antibody Functionalized Hyperpolarized Silicon Particles
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|July 14, 2025
Summary
New hyperpolarized silicon particles target colorectal cancer (CRC) with Mucin-1 antibodies. These non-invasive agents show promise for early detection via enhanced MRI scans in mouse models.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Biomedical Imaging
- Oncology
Background:
- Colorectal cancer (CRC) detection requires sensitive, non-invasive methods.
- Hyperpolarized silicon nanoparticles offer biocompatibility and long-lasting MRI signals.
- Targeted molecular imaging agents are needed for high-risk patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate hyperpolarized silicon particles functionalized with Mucin-1 (MUC1) antibodies for targeted CRC detection.
- To assess the feasibility of using these particles for non-invasive molecular imaging via MRI.
Main Methods:
- Silicon particles were functionalized with an antibody targeting MUC1, a CRC-specific glycoprotein.
- Dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) was used to hyperpolarize the silicon particles.
- In vivo MRI was performed on orthotopic CRC mouse models after luminal administration of the targeted particles.
Main Results:
- Antibody conjugation did not affect particle hyperpolarization or antibody affinity.
- Targeted hyperpolarized silicon particles actively localized to MUC1-expressing CRC tumor sites in mice.
- Results were validated by control experiments and immunohistochemical analysis.
Conclusions:
- Surface-functionalized silicon particles are a promising platform for non-invasive molecular targeting of CRC.
- Hyperpolarized MRI with MUC1-targeted silicon particles enables sensitive detection of colorectal cancer lesions.
