Lukianova-Hleb E., Santiago C., Wagner D., Hafner J., Lapotko D.
Rice University, US
Keywords: bubble, cancer, gold nanoparticle, laser, photothermal, zebrafish
In vivo application of plasmonic methods faces serious challenges because standard animal models are not well suited for optical activation and detection of plasmonic effects and for precise control the distribution and interactions of the nanoparticles (NP) with a host. We suggested to combine the unique properties of zebrafish such as optical transparency, compatibility with gold nanoparticles and ability to deliver and collect optical radiation for in vivo development of cell level nanotechnologies for the diagnostics, therapy and theranostics (combined diagnosis and therapy). Using injected gold NPs and short laser pulse excitation we have evaluated optical generation and detection of the localized and transient events (plasmonic nanobubbles) in living zebrafish. Application of gold nanoparticles, laser radiation and the generation of plasmonic nanobubbles (including those that caused the damage at cell level) did not compromise the viability of zebrafish. Plasmonic nanobubbles have demonstrated dual and tunable effect: diagnosis through high sensitive optical scattering (more than 10-fold increase relative to that of gold NPs) and therapy through selective mechanical damage of individual specific cells and without the damage to collateral cells and to the host. This combination will provide the basis for the development of cell level theranostics in vivo.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2010: Bio Sensors, Instruments, Medical, Environment and Energy
Published: June 21, 2010
Pages: 412 - 415
Industry sector: Medical & Biotech
Topics: Biomaterials, Cancer Nanotechnology
ISBN: 978-1-4398-3415-2