Preparation and characterization of a novel dual-functional fluorescent-ultrasonic composite imaging agent

OBJECTIVE: Quantum dots (QDs) and microbubbles (MBs) were combined together by electrostatic adsorption self-assembly technique to obtain a novel dual-functional composite imaging agent, in addition, both of its fluorescent and ultrasonic imaging abilities were primarily investigated. METHODS: Circled digit onePreparation of surfactant-based MBs: Gas-filled microbubbles were generated by sonication of a mixture of Span 60-Tween 80 surfactants. Circled digit twoPreparation of the composite imaging agent: QDs were adsorbed on MBs by electrostatic adsorption self-assembly to obtain the composite MBs. Circled digit threeCharacterizations of the composite imaging agent: Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was used to confirm the deposition of QDs on the MBs. Meanwhile, photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the composite imaging agent were analyzed to demonstrate the fluorescent imaging ability. At last, in vivo ultrasonic imaging was applied to validate the ultrasonic imaging ability of the composite agent. RESULTS: CLSM and PL spectra results confirmed the connection between QDs and MBs1 and also proved the fluorescent imaging ability of the novel agent. In vivo ultrasonic imaging showed that the novel composite imaging agent exhibited excellent ultrasonic imaging function. CONCLUSION: The novel dual-functional composite imaging agent that has both fluorescent and ultrasonic imaging abilities can be obtained by self-assembly technique. The function of novel composite agent is verified by animal experiment.