Deep tumor imaging by upconversion nanoparticles

Abstract

In this work are shown the prospects of using upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) as markers for contrast optical imaging of a tumor. For using nanoparticles for biomedical purposes is implemented a technique for coating nanoparticles with polymers, such as PEG and PSA. This approach provides low non-specific adsorption, which prolongs the circulation of UCNPs in mouse bearing Lewis Lung Cancer (LLC) up to 10 hours. These properties allow nanoparticles to quickly accumulate in the tumor. Effective delivery of particles with different polymer coatings in the tumor is demonstrated with the help of an epiluminescent imaging system.