Aza-BODIPY Fluorophores for NIR II Optical Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for contrast agents that can effectively emit in the 1000-1700 nm wavelength range to improve optical imaging resolution and detection depth, particularly for identifying biological targets such as tumors, as existing agents are limited by auto-fluorescence and detection range below 1000 nm.
Innovation Solution
The use of aza-BODIPY fluorophore compounds, which can emit in the 1000-1700 nm range, either alone or encapsulated, to serve as contrast agents, potentially coupled with biological vectors or molecules, enhancing imaging capabilities by reducing tissue auto-fluorescence and improving resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional contrast agents (Cyanines, Alexa, Atto, BODIPY, Rhodamine, Fluorescein, Indocyanine green) are used for optical imaging, then detection can be performed in the visible and near-infrared ranges, but the detection depth is limited and tissue auto-fluorescence interferes with signal quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by shifting the emission wavelength of contrast agents from the conventional NIR I range (700-900 nm) to the NIR II range (1000-1700 nm). This wavelength shift moves the detection window to a region where tissue auto-fluorescence is significantly reduced, thereby improving signal quality and detection depth. The aza-BODIPY compounds are specifically designed to emit in this optimized wavelength range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining the aza-BODIPY fluorophore core with various biological vectors (antibodies, peptides, aptamers) and functional groups. This creates hybrid contrast agents that not only emit in the optimal NIR II range but also provide specific targeting capabilities and enhanced pharmacokinetic properties, resolving the contradiction between detection quality and biological compatibility.
2Ease of operation
If contrast agents emitting below 1000 nm are used, then conventional imaging tools can be utilized, but resolution and detection depth are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the key parameter of emission wavelength from below 1000 nm to 1000-1700 nm range. This parameter change enables the use of advanced NIR II imaging cameras and optical tools that provide superior resolution and detection depth, while the contrast agents remain compatible with modern imaging systems designed for this wavelength range.
3Measurement precision
If new NIR II cameras and optical tools are adopted for 1000-1700 nm detection, then resolution and detection depth improve, but adapted contrast agents are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by developing aza-BODIPY compounds that serve multiple functions: they emit in the NIR II range for high-resolution imaging, can be conjugated to various biological vectors for targeted imaging, and maintain photostability and brightness. This multi-functionality makes them adaptable to different imaging applications and compatible with existing NIR II imaging tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the chemical structure of traditional BODIPY dyes by introducing nitrogen atoms at specific positions (aza-BODIPY), which changes the emission wavelength to the optimal NIR II range. This structural parameter change creates a versatile platform that can be further functionalized with different targeting moieties, providing both the required wavelength emission and adaptability to various imaging scenarios.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The aza-BODIPY compounds enhance image quality, facilitate deeper tissue penetration, and enable easier identification of biological targets, including tumors, by providing improved resolution and broader detection range in optical imaging, while minimizing tissue auto-fluorescence and scattering.
Implementation Method 1
aza-BODIPY fluorophore compounds, capable of emitting in the detection range 1000 to 1700 nm
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the use of an aza-BODIPY fluorophore compound as a contrast agent in the optical window ranging from 1000 to 1700 nm. The invention also relates to the use, as a contrast agent, of a composition comprising said fluorophore compound and a pharmaceutically acceptable excipient and/or a solvent, in a kit comprising an injection system and said fluorophore or said composition, and also to a method for identifying a biological target (such as a healthy or tumour cell, a protein, DNA, RNA, for example).