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Vollett KDW, Cheng HLM. Efficient one-step amide formation using amino porphyrins. Org Biomol Chem 2024; 22:6308-6320. [PMID: 39037740 DOI: 10.1039/d4ob00704b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Amide bonds are one of the most prevalent phenomena in nature and are utilized frequently in drug and material design. However, forming amide bonds is not always efficient or high yielding, particularly when the amine used to conjugate to a carboxylic acid is a weak nucleophile. This limitation precludes many useful amino compounds from participating in conjugation reactions to form amides. A particularly valuable amino compound, which is also a very weak nucleophile, is the amino porphyrin, valued for its role as a photosensitizer, fluorescent agent, catalyst, or, upon metalation, even a very efficient contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In this work, we propose fast and high-yield coupling of an unreactive amine - the amino porphyrin - to carboxylic acid via isothiocyanate conjugation. Reactions can be achieved in one step at room temperature in one hour, achieving quantitative conversion and near perfect selectivity. Both metalated and unmetalated porphyrin, as well as fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), demonstrated efficient conjugation. To illustrate the value of the proposed method, we created a new blood-pool MRI contrast agent that reversibly binds to serum albumin. This new blood-pool agent, known as MITC-Deox (MRI isothiocyanate that links with deoxycholic acid), substantially reduced T1 relaxation times in blood vessels in mice, remained stable for 1 hour, cleared from blood by 24 hours, and was eliminated from the body after 4 days. The proposed method for efficient amide formation is a superior alternative to existing coupling methods, opening a door to novel synthesis of MRI contrast agents and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle D W Vollett
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Canada.
- Translational Biology & Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hai-Ling Margaret Cheng
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Canada.
- Translational Biology & Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, Canada
- The Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Canada
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Cheng HLM. A primer on in vivo cell tracking using MRI. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1193459. [PMID: 37324153 PMCID: PMC10264782 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1193459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell tracking by in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers a collection of multiple advantages over other imaging modalities, including high spatial resolution, unlimited depth penetration, 3D visualization, lack of ionizing radiation, and the potential for long-term cell monitoring. Three decades of innovation in both contrast agent chemistry and imaging physics have built an expansive array of probes and methods to track cells non-invasively across a diverse range of applications. In this review, we describe both established and emerging MRI cell tracking approaches and the variety of mechanisms available for contrast generation. Emphasis is given to the advantages, practical limitations, and persistent challenges of each approach, incorporating quantitative comparisons where possible. Toward the end of this review, we take a deeper dive into three key application areas - tracking cancer metastasis, immunotherapy for cancer, and stem cell regeneration - and discuss the cell tracking techniques most suitable to each.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Ling Margaret Cheng
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- The Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Translational Biology & Engineering Program, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Geraldes CF, Castro MMC, Peters JA. Mn(III) porphyrins as potential MRI contrast agents for diagnosis and MRI-guided therapy. Coord Chem Rev 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2021.214069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Papan P, Kantapan J, Sangthong P, Meepowpan P, Dechsupa N. Iron (III)-Quercetin Complex: Synthesis, Physicochemical Characterization, and MRI Cell Tracking toward Potential Applications in Regenerative Medicine. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2020; 2020:8877862. [PMID: 33456403 PMCID: PMC7785384 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8877862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In cell therapy, contrast agents T1 and T2 are both needed for the labeling and tracking of transplanted stem cells over extended periods of time through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Importantly, the metal-quercetin complex via coordination chemistry has been studied extensively for biomedical applications, such as anticancer therapies and imaging probes. Herein, we report on the synthesis, characterization, and labeling of the iron (III)-quercetin complex, "IronQ," in circulating proangiogenic cells (CACs) and also explore tracking via the use of a clinical 1.5 Tesla (T) MRI scanner. Moreover, IronQ had a paramagnetic T1 positive contrast agent property with a saturation magnetization of 0.155 emu/g at 1.0 T and longitudinal relaxivity (r1) values of 2.29 and 3.70 mM-1s-1 at 1.5 T for water and human plasma, respectively. Surprisingly, IronQ was able to promote CAC growth in conventional cell culture systems without the addition of specific growth factors. Increasing dosages of IronQ from 0 to 200 μg/mL led to higher CAC uptake, and maximum labeling time was achieved in 10 days. The accumulated IronQ in CACs was measured by two methodologies, an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-EOS) and T1-weighted MRI. In our research, we confirmed that IronQ has excellent dual functions with the use of an imaging probe for MRI. IronQ can also act as a stimulating agent by favoring circulating proangiogenic cell differentiation. Optimistically, IronQ is considered beneficial for alternative labeling and in the tracking of circulation proangiogenic cells and/or other stem cells in applications of cell therapy through noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging in both preclinical and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phakorn Papan
- Research Unit of Molecular Imaging Probes and Radiobiology, Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Jiraporn Kantapan
- Research Unit of Molecular Imaging Probes and Radiobiology, Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Padchanee Sangthong
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Puttinan Meepowpan
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Nathupakorn Dechsupa
- Research Unit of Molecular Imaging Probes and Radiobiology, Department of Radiologic Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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An Efficient T 1 Contrast Agent for Labeling and Tracking Human Embryonic Stem Cells on MRI. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2019; 2019:3475786. [PMID: 31316306 PMCID: PMC6604499 DOI: 10.1155/2019/3475786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Noninvasive cell tracking in vivo has the potential to advance stem cell-based therapies into the clinic. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides an excellent image-guidance platform; however, existing MR cell labeling agents are fraught with limited specificity. To address this unmet need, we developed a highly efficient manganese porphyrin contrast agent, MnEtP, using a two-step synthesis. In vitro MRI at 3 Tesla on human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) demonstrated high labeling efficiency at a very low dose of 10 µM MnEtP, resulting in a four-fold lower T1 relaxation time. This extraordinarily low dose is ideal for labeling large cell numbers required for large animals and humans. Cell viability and differentiation capacity were unaffected. Cellular manganese quantification corroborated MRI findings, and the agent localized primarily on the cell membrane. In vivo MRI of transplanted hESCs in a rat demonstrated excellent sensitivity and specificity of MnEtP for noninvasive stem cell tracking.
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Wahsner J, Gale EM, Rodríguez-Rodríguez A, Caravan P. Chemistry of MRI Contrast Agents: Current Challenges and New Frontiers. Chem Rev 2019; 119:957-1057. [PMID: 30350585 PMCID: PMC6516866 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.8b00363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 849] [Impact Index Per Article: 169.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Tens of millions of contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams are performed annually around the world. The contrast agents, which improve diagnostic accuracy, are almost exclusively small, hydrophilic gadolinium(III) based chelates. In recent years concerns have arisen surrounding the long-term safety of these compounds, and this has spurred research into alternatives. There has also been a push to develop new molecularly targeted contrast agents or agents that can sense pathological changes in the local environment. This comprehensive review describes the state of the art of clinically approved contrast agents, their mechanism of action, and factors influencing their safety. From there we describe different mechanisms of generating MR image contrast such as relaxation, chemical exchange saturation transfer, and direct detection and the types of molecules that are effective for these purposes. Next we describe efforts to make safer contrast agents either by increasing relaxivity, increasing resistance to metal ion release, or by moving to gadolinium(III)-free alternatives. Finally we survey approaches to make contrast agents more specific for pathology either by direct biochemical targeting or by the design of responsive or activatable contrast agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Wahsner
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging and the Institute for Innovation in Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
| | - Eric M. Gale
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging and the Institute for Innovation in Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
| | - Aurora Rodríguez-Rodríguez
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging and the Institute for Innovation in Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
| | - Peter Caravan
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging and the Institute for Innovation in Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
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A manganese porphyrin-based T1 contrast agent for cellular MR imaging of human embryonic stem cells. Sci Rep 2018; 8:12129. [PMID: 30108285 PMCID: PMC6092441 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-30661-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
MRI for non-invasive cell tracking is recognized for enabling pre-clinical research on stem cell therapy. Yet, adoption of cellular imaging in stem cell research has been restricted to sites with experience in MR contrast agent synthesis and to small animal models that do not require scaled-up synthesis. In this study, we demonstrate the use of a gadolinium-free T1 contrast agent for tracking human embryonic stem cells. The agent, MnPNH2, is an easily synthesized manganese porphyrin that can be scaled for large cell numbers. MRI was performed on a 3 T clinical scanner. Cell pellets labeled at different MnPNH2 concentrations for 24 hours demonstrated a decrease in T1 relaxation time of nearly two-fold (P < 0.05), and cellular contrast was maintained for 24 hours (P < 0.05). Cell viability (Trypan blue) and differentiation (embryoid body formation) were unaffected. Cell uptake of Mn on inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy corroborated MRI findings, and fluorescence microscopy revealed the agent localized mainly in cell-cell boundaries and cell nuclei. Labeled cells transplanted in rats demonstrated the superior sensitivity of MnPNH2 for in-vivo cell tracking.
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Alhamami M, Cheng W, Lyu Y, Allen C, Zhang XA, Cheng HLM. Manganese-porphyrin-enhanced MRI for the detection of cancer cells: A quantitative in vitro investigation with multiple clinical subtypes of breast cancer. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0196998. [PMID: 29795583 PMCID: PMC5993062 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0196998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents (CAs) are chemical compounds that can enhance image contrast on T1- or T2- weighted MR image. We have previously demonstrated the potential of MnCl2, a manganese-based CA, in cellular imaging of breast cancer using T1-weighted MRI. In this work, we examined the potential of another class of manganese-based CAs, manganese porphyrins (MnPs), for sensitive cellular detection of multiple clinical subtypes of breast cancer using quantitative MRI. Using a clinical 3.0-T MRI scanner, the relaxivities of two MnPs, MnTPPS4 and MnTPPS3NH2, and conventional Gd-DTPA (control) were measured in ultrapure water and their T1 contrast enhancement patterns were characterized in multiple clinical subtypes of breast cancer. The toxicity of the three CAs was evaluated in vitro. Compared to Gd-DTPA, both MnTPPS3NH2 and MnTPPS4 enabled a more sensitive multi-subtype detection of four breast cell lines at doses that posed no cytotoxic effects, with MnTPPS3NH2 producing the greatest positive enhancement. The superior T1 enhancement capabilities of MnPs over Gd-DTPA are statistically significant and are likely due to their greater cellular uptake and relaxivities. The results demonstrate that multiple clinical subtypes of breast cancer can be imaged on a 3.0-T MRI scanner using MnPs as T1 cellular CAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mosa Alhamami
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Weiran Cheng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yuanyuan Lyu
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Christine Allen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Spatio-Temporal Targeting and Amplification of Radiation Response (STTARR) Innovation Centre, Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Xiao-an Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hai-Ling Margaret Cheng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- The Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Biology and Engineering Program, Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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