Non-invasive imaging of endothelial progenitor cells in tumor neovascularization using a novel dual-modality paramagnetic/near-infrared fluorescence probe.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Bone-marrow derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play an important role in tumor neovasculature. Due to their tumor homing property, EPCs are regarded as promising targeted vectors for delivering therapeutic agents in cancer treatment. Consequently, non-invasive confirmation of targeted delivery via imaging is urgently needed. This study shows the development and application of a novel dual-modality probe for in vivo non-invasively tracking of the migration, homing and differentiation of EPCs.

Methods

The paramagnetic/near-infrared fluorescence probe Conjugate 1 labeled EPCs were systemically transplanted into mice bearing human breast MDA-MB-231 tumor xenografts. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence optical imaging were perf

SUBMITTER: Wang XY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3511537 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature