Hyaluronic Acid−Quantum Dot Conjugates for In Vivo Lymphatic Vessel Imaging

Abstract

A simple and novel electrostatic coupling method is reported, which provides a hyaluronic acid-quantum dot conjugate (HA-QD) that is colloidally stable and size-tunable from 50 to 120 nm. The HA-QDs show cancer targeting efficiency, which suggests diagnostic and imaging applications. The conjugates are also demonstrated for the fluorescence staining capability for lymphatic vessels in vitro and in vivo. Using the HA-QDs in a small animal model, lymphatic vessels are visualized real-time in vivo for days. Comprehensive cytotoxicity evaluations are made for the conjugates and the unconjugated counterpart. The HA-QDs showcase the potentials toward cancer imaging and real-time visualization of changes in lymphatic vessels such as lymphangiogenesis.

Compact and Stable Quantum Dots with Positive, Negative, or Zwitterionic Surface: Specific Cell Interactions and Non‐Specific Adsorptions by the Surface Charges

“…The CdSe/CdZnS core-shell QDs were synthesized following procedures we have previously reported. [ 6 ] After the ligand-exchanges to (−), ( + ), or ( +/− ) QDs the absorption and emission profi les remained unchanged. The photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield was typically over 20% ( Figure S1).…”

In-situ immobilization of quantum dots in polysaccharide-based nanogels for integration of optical pH-sensing, tumor cell imaging, and drug delivery

“…For polysaccharide systems, the pre-synthesized QDs with negative surface charges have been incorporated into chitosan, amino modified cholesterol-bearing pullulan, and dextran-polylysine complex nanospheres through the electrostatic interactions [26][27][28]. The QDs were also conjugated onto the hyaluronic acid for bioimaging [29]. However, no research efforts have been made to utilize the -OH groups of polysaccharides to sequester the Cd 2þ ions for in-situ immobilization of QDs into pH-sensitive polysaccharide-based nanogels although this in-situ template synthesis method is simple and facile.…”

Cytotoxicity of CdTe quantum dots in human umbilical vein endothelial cells: the involvement of cellular uptake and induction of pro-apoptotic endoplasmic reticulum stress

“…1,2 For example, several research groups reported the successful labeling of blood vasculature in dermal, adipose, lymphatic, or tumor tissues by intravenous injections of QDs or peptide-conjugated QDs. [3][4][5][6] These injected QDs can highlight morphological abnormalities in vasculature, trace biodistribution of drugs, and monitor the blood circulation dynamics. Moreover, because of the multicolor nature of QDs, researchers can investigate separate vascular systems in a multiplexed manner that could provide insight into the intricate blood circulation networks within organs and tissues.…”