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Red/NIR-emissive AIE nanoprobe to track subcellular dynamics in a photodynamic therapy process
Yu Zhou1, Yalei Jiang1, Lanqiong Zhang2
1School of Chemistry, Engineering Research Center of Energy Storage Materials and Devices, Ministry of Education, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China. xuyanzi@xjtu.edu.cn.
Abstract:
Precise monitoring of cancer treatment at the subcellular level remains a critical challenge. Therefore, a lysosome-specific AIE nanoprobe integrating stimulated emission depletion (STED) imaging and photodynamic therapy is reported here. The probe enables real-time visualization of lysosomal dynamics and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated apoptosis, offering a powerful platform for high-resolution imaging-guided cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Insights
This study introduces a novel lysosome-specific nanoprobe for advanced cancer treatment monitoring. The probe allows high-resolution imaging of cellular processes and guides therapy by visualizing reactive oxygen species.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Nanotechnology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Monitoring cancer treatment at the subcellular level is challenging.
- Lysosomes play a crucial role in cellular processes and drug response.
- Need for advanced imaging techniques for real-time treatment assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a lysosome-specific AIE nanoprobe for cancer treatment monitoring.
- To integrate stimulated emission depletion (STED) imaging with photodynamic therapy.
- To enable real-time visualization of lysosomal dynamics and apoptosis.
Main Methods:
- Design and synthesis of a lysosome-specific Aggregation-Induced Emission (AIE) nanoprobe.
- Utilizing Stimulated Emission Depletion (STED) microscopy for high-resolution imaging.
- Employing photodynamic therapy to induce and monitor reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Main Results:
- The nanoprobe specifically targets lysosomes.
- Achieved real-time visualization of lysosomal dynamics.
- Demonstrated ROS-mediated apoptosis visualization for treatment guidance.
- High-resolution imaging capabilities were confirmed.
Conclusions:
- The developed nanoprobe is a powerful tool for subcellular cancer treatment monitoring.
- Offers a platform for high-resolution imaging-guided cancer diagnosis and therapy.
- Facilitates real-time assessment of treatment efficacy through ROS detection.
