Fluorescent Nanoparticles for Deep Tissue Cell Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluorescent imaging methods for tracking cells in vivo face limitations due to inadequate photon penetration in tissues, particularly in deep tissues, which restricts the effectiveness of near-infrared dyes and conventional imaging techniques.
Innovation Solution
The method involves administering fluorescent nanoparticles capable of emitting fluorescence in the 450-900 nm range, combined with a high-coherent X-ray source to stimulate these nanoparticles, allowing for simultaneous X-ray and fluorescent imaging to track cell growth and distribution without the need for sample slicing, using Gd-based nanoparticles like Gd2O3, and applying this technique for real-time monitoring and photodynamic therapy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional small molecule near-infrared dyes are used for fluorescent imaging, then the imaging can be performed, but the photon penetration in tissue is inadequate especially for deep tissues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the fluorescent probe by using nanoparticles instead of small molecules, and by selecting specific emission wavelengths (450-900 nm range including NIR region), achieving both adequate photon penetration and effective imaging
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite fluorescent nanoparticles that combine multiple properties - they serve as both fluorescent probes for imaging and contrast agents for X-ray imaging, creating a multi-functional platform that overcomes the limitations of single-function probes
2Adaptability or versatility
If fluorescent imaging is used to track cells, then cell tracking is possible, but the method lacks combination with other imaging modalities for comprehensive diagnosis
Solution Approach 1:
The fluorescent nanoparticles are designed with dual functionality: they provide fluorescent signal for optical imaging and serve as X-ray contrast agents, allowing a single probe to enable both fluorescent imaging and X-ray imaging, thus achieving comprehensive diagnosis without requiring separate probes for each modality
3Loss of time
If conventional imaging techniques are used, then imaging can be performed, but real-time monitoring of deep tissue structures is not achievable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables continuous real-time monitoring by using nanoparticles that maintain stable fluorescent and X-ray contrast properties throughout the imaging process, allowing uninterrupted observation of cell growth and vascular changes in deep tissues without the need for sample slicing
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
This approach reduces autofluorescence interference and enables immediate, high-resolution monitoring of tumor cells and vasculature deep within tissues, facilitating real-time diagnosis and treatment by combining X-ray and fluorescent imaging systems.
Implementation Method 1
administering fluorescent nanoparticles capable of emitting fluorescence in the 450-900 nm range, combined with a high-coherent X-ray source to stimulate these nanoparticles
Implementation Method 2
providing an X-ray source to irradiate the subject, and determining the growth and distribution of the specific cells by fluorescent images of the fluorescent nanoparticles and X-ray images from to the subject irradiated by the X-ray source
Implementation Method 3
using Gd-based nanoparticles like Gd2O3, and applying this technique for real-time monitoring and photodynamic therapy
Data Source
AI summary
A method of tracking specific cells in vivo is disclosed. The method of the disclosure includes: providing fluorescent nanoparticles suitable for targeting of specific cells; administering the fluorescent nanoparticles to a subject; providing an X-ray source to irradiate the subject; and determining the distribution and growth of the specific cells by the fluorescent images from the fluorescent nanoparticles and X-ray images of the subject irradiated by the X-ray source.