Fluorescence imaging enables efficient study of inhaled nanoparticles

Jan. 1, 2011
A real-time imaging system has enabled scientists at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) and the Harvard School of Public Health to track near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent nanoparticles as they moved from the airspaces of the lungs, into the body and out again.

A real-time imaging system has enabled scientists at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) and the Harvard School of Public Health to track near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent nanoparticles as they moved from the airspaces of the lungs, into the body and out again. The resulting knowledge promises to help develop therapeutic agents to treat pulmonary disease, as well as offer a greater understanding of the health effects of air pollution.1

The study aimed to determine the characteristics and parameters of inhaled nanoparticles that mediate their uptake into the body—from the external environment, across the alveolar lung surface and into the lymphatic system and bloodstream, and eventually to other organs. The researchers used the FLARE (Fluorescence-Assisted Resection and Exploration) imaging system and systematically varied the chemical composition, size, shape and surface charge of a group of NIR fluorescent nanoparticles to compare them. The team then tracked the nanoparticles' movement in the lungs of rat models, and verified results using conventional radioactive tracers. Their results established that non-positively charged nanoparticles, smaller than 34 nm in diameter, appeared in the lung-draining lymph nodes within 30 minutes. They also found that nanoparticles smaller than 6 nm in diameter with equal positive and negative charge traveled to the draining lymph nodes within just a few minutes, and were subsequently cleared by the kidneys.

These findings promise to help drug makers design and optimize particles for delivery by inhalation, and may also guide assessment of the health effects of particulate pollutants.

1. H.S. Choi et al., Nature Biotechnology 28: 1300-1303 (2010)

More BioOptics World Current Issue Articles
More BioOptics World Archives Issue Articles

Sponsored Recommendations

Achromatic Lenses: High-Quality Custom Optics

March 13, 2025
Ensure clarity and accuracy in your optics systems with Lacroix’s achromatic lenses. Explore how our custom solutions minimize chromatic aberration for perfect results.

Manufacturing Considerations for Tolerancing Aspheres

March 13, 2025
Understand the critical factors in manufacturing aspheres and how Lacroix Optics ensures precise tolerancing in every optical component.

Explore Our Videos: Insights into Precision Optics

March 13, 2025
Get an inside look at Lacroix Optics with our collection of informative videos showcasing our capabilities, innovations, and processes.

Optical Assemblies: Reliable and Precise Solutions

March 13, 2025
Ensure your optical system works seamlessly with Lacroix Optics' custom optical assemblies. Discover the precision and reliability we bring to every project.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!