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Hall C, von Grabowiecki Y, Pearce SP, Dive C, Bagley S, Muller PAJ. iRFP (near-infrared fluorescent protein) imaging of subcutaneous and deep tissue tumours in mice highlights differences between imaging platforms. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:247. [PMID: 33941186 PMCID: PMC8091726 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01918-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In vivo imaging using fluorescence is used in cancer biology for the detection, measurement and monitoring of tumours. This can be achieved with the expression of fluorescent proteins such as iRFP, which emits light at a wavelength less attenuated in biological tissues compared to light emitted by other fluorescent proteins such as GFP or RFP. Imaging platforms capable of detecting fluorescent tumours in small animals have been developed but studies comparing the performance of these platforms are scarce. RESULTS Through access to three platforms from Xenogen, Bruker and Li-Cor, we compared their ability to detect iRFP-expressing subcutaneous tumours as well as tumours localised deeper within the body of female NSG mice. Each platform was paired with proprietary software for image analyse, but the output depends on subjective decisions from the user. To more objectively compare platforms, we developed an 'in house' software-based approach which results in lower measured variability between mice. CONCLUSIONS Our comparisons showed that all three platforms allowed for reliable detection and monitoring of subcutaneous iRFP tumour growth. The biggest differences between platforms became apparent when imaging deeper tumours with the Li-Cor platform detecting most tumours and showing the highest dynamic range.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Hall
- Tumour Suppressors Group, CRUK Manchester Institute, University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Manchester, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - Y von Grabowiecki
- Tumour Suppressors Group, CRUK Manchester Institute, University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Manchester, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - S P Pearce
- Cancer Biomarker Centre, CRUK Manchester Institute, University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Manchester, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - C Dive
- Cancer Biomarker Centre, CRUK Manchester Institute, University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Manchester, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - S Bagley
- Visualisation, Irradiation and Analysis, CRUK Manchester Institute, University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Manchester, SK10 4TG, UK
| | - P A J Muller
- Tumour Suppressors Group, CRUK Manchester Institute, University of Manchester, Alderley Park, Manchester, SK10 4TG, UK.
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2
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Karasev MM, Stepanenko OV, Rumyantsev KA, Turoverov KK, Verkhusha VV. Near-Infrared Fluorescent Proteins and Their Applications. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2019; 84:S32-S50. [PMID: 31213194 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297919140037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
High transparency, low light-scattering, and low autofluorescence of mammalian tissues in the near-infrared (NIR) spectral range (~650-900 nm) open a possibility for in vivo imaging of biological processes at the micro- and macroscales to address basic and applied problems in biology and biomedicine. Recently, probes that absorb and fluoresce in the NIR optical range have been engineered using bacterial phytochromes - natural NIR light-absorbing photoreceptors that regulate metabolism in bacteria. Since the chromophore in all these proteins is biliverdin, a natural product of heme catabolism in mammalian cells, they can be used as genetically encoded fluorescent probes, similarly to GFP-like fluorescent proteins. In this review, we discuss photophysical and biochemical properties of NIR fluorescent proteins, reporters, and biosensors and analyze their characteristics required for expression of these molecules in mammalian cells. Structural features and molecular engineering of NIR fluorescent probes are discussed. Applications of NIR fluorescent proteins and biosensors for studies of molecular processes in cells, as well as for tissue and organ visualization in whole-body imaging in vivo, are described. We specifically focus on the use of NIR fluorescent probes in advanced imaging technologies that combine fluorescence and bioluminescence methods with photoacoustic tomography.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Karasev
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, 194064, Russia. .,Medicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00290, Finland
| | - O V Stepanenko
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, 194064, Russia.
| | - K A Rumyantsev
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, 194064, Russia. .,Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA.,Loginov Moscow Clinical Scientific Center, Moscow, 111123, Russia
| | - K K Turoverov
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, 194064, Russia. .,Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 195251, Russia
| | - V V Verkhusha
- Medicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, 00290, Finland. .,Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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3
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Wilson AL, Wilson KL, Bilandzic M, Moffitt LR, Makanji M, Gorrell MD, Oehler MK, Rainczuk A, Stephens AN, Plebanski M. Non-Invasive Fluorescent Monitoring of Ovarian Cancer in an Immunocompetent Mouse Model. Cancers (Basel) 2018; 11:E32. [PMID: 30602661 PMCID: PMC6356411 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11010032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancers (OCs) are the most lethal gynaecological malignancy, with high levels of relapse and acquired chemo-resistance. Whilst the tumour⁻immune nexus controls both cancer progression and regression, the lack of an appropriate system to accurately model tumour stage and immune status has hampered the validation of clinically relevant immunotherapies and therapeutic vaccines to date. To address this need, we stably integrated the near-infrared phytochrome iRFP720 at the ROSA26 genomic locus of ID8 mouse OC cells. Intrabursal ovarian implantation into C57BL/6 mice, followed by regular, non-invasive fluorescence imaging, permitted the direct visualization of tumour mass and distribution over the course of progression. Four distinct phases of tumour growth and dissemination were detectable over time that closely mimicked clinical OC progression. Progression-related changes in immune cells also paralleled typical immune profiles observed in human OCs. Specifically, we observed changes in both the CD8+ T cell effector (Teff):regulatory (Treg) ratio, as well as the dendritic cell (DC)-to-myeloid derived suppressor cell (MDSC) ratio over time across multiple immune cell compartments and in peritoneal ascites. Importantly, iRFP720 expression had no detectible influence over immune profiles. This new model permits non-invasive, longitudinal tumour monitoring whilst preserving host⁻tumour immune interactions, and allows for the pre-clinical assessment of immune profiles throughout disease progression as well as the direct visualization of therapeutic responses. This simple fluorescence-based approach provides a useful new tool for the validation of novel immuno-therapeutics against OC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Wilson
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia.
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia.
| | - Kirsty L Wilson
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia.
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora 3083, Australia.
| | - Maree Bilandzic
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia.
| | - Laura R Moffitt
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia.
| | - Ming Makanji
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia.
| | - Mark D Gorrell
- Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2006, Australia.
| | - Martin K Oehler
- Department of Gynaecological Oncology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide 5000, Australia.
- Robinson Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5000, Australia.
| | - Adam Rainczuk
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia.
- Bruker Biosciences Pty Ltd., Preston 3072, Australia.
| | - Andrew N Stephens
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia.
| | - Magdalena Plebanski
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora 3083, Australia.
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4
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Shcherbakova DM, Stepanenko OV, Turoverov KK, Verkhusha VV. Near-Infrared Fluorescent Proteins: Multiplexing and Optogenetics across Scales. Trends Biotechnol 2018; 36:1230-1243. [PMID: 30041828 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2018.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Since mammalian tissue is relatively transparent to near-infrared (NIR) light, NIR fluorescent proteins (FPs) engineered from bacterial phytochromes have become widely used probes for non-invasive in vivo imaging. Recently, these genetically encoded NIR probes have been substantially improved, enabling imaging experiments that were not possible previously. Here, we discuss the use of monomeric NIR FPs and NIR biosensors for multiplexed imaging with common visible GFP-based probes and blue light-activatable optogenetic tools. These NIR probes are suitable for visualization of functional activities from molecular to organismal levels. In combination with advanced imaging techniques, such as two-photon microscopy with adaptive optics, photoacoustic tomography and its recent modification reversibly switchable photoacoustic computed tomography, NIR probes allow subcellular resolution at millimeter depths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria M Shcherbakova
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology and Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Olesya V Stepanenko
- Laboratory of Structural Dynamics, Stability and Folding of Proteins, Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg 194064, Russian Federation
| | - Konstantin K Turoverov
- Laboratory of Structural Dynamics, Stability and Folding of Proteins, Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg 194064, Russian Federation; Department of Biophysics, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg 195251, Russian Federation
| | - Vladislav V Verkhusha
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology and Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00290, Finland.
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5
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Lai CW, Chen HL, Yen CC, Wang JL, Yang SH, Chen CM. Using Dual Fluorescence Reporting Genes to Establish an In Vivo Imaging Model of Orthotopic Lung Adenocarcinoma in Mice. Mol Imaging Biol 2017; 18:849-859. [PMID: 27197534 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-016-0967-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Lung adenocarcinoma is characterized by a poor prognosis and high mortality worldwide. In this study, we purposed to use the live imaging techniques and a reporter gene that generates highly penetrative near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence to establish a preclinical animal model that allows in vivo monitoring of lung cancer development and provides a non-invasive tool for the research on lung cancer pathogenesis and therapeutic efficacy. PROCEDURES A human lung adenocarcinoma cell line (A549), which stably expressed the dual fluorescence reporting gene (pCAG-iRFP-2A-Venus), was used to generate subcutaneous or orthotopic lung cancer in nude mice. Cancer development was evaluated by live imaging via the NIR fluorescent signals from iRFP, and the signals were verified ex vivo by the green fluorescence of Venus from the gross lung. The tumor-bearing mice received miR-16 nucleic acid therapy by intranasal administration to demonstrate therapeutic efficacy in this live imaging system. RESULTS For the subcutaneous xenografts, the detection of iRFP fluorescent signals revealed delicate changes occurring during tumor growth that are not distinguishable by conventional methods of tumor measurement. For the orthotopic xenografts, the positive correlation between the in vivo iRFP signal from mice chests and the ex vivo green fluorescent signal from gross lung tumors and the results of the suppressed tumorigenesis by miR-16 treatment indicated that lung tumor size can be accurately quantified by the emission of NIR fluorescence. In addition, orthotopic lung tumor localization can be accurately visualized using iRFP fluorescence tomography in vivo, thus revealing the trafficking of lung tumor cells. CONCLUSIONS We introduced a novel dual fluorescence lung cancer model that provides a non-invasive option for preclinical research via the use of NIR fluorescence in live imaging of lung.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Wei Lai
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Ling Chen
- Department of Bioresources, Da-Yeh University, Changhua, 515, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ching Yen
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 404, Taiwan
| | - Jiun-Long Wang
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan
- Division of Chest Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, 407, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Hsun Yang
- Department of Physiology, and Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Mu Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan.
- Rong-Hsing Translational Medicine Center, iEGG Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, 402, Taiwan.
- Agricultural Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, No. 250, Kuo Kuang Rd., Taichung, 402, Taiwan.
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6
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Hock AK, Cheung EC, Humpton TJ, Monteverde T, Paulus-Hock V, Lee P, McGhee E, Scopelliti A, Murphy DJ, Strathdee D, Blyth K, Vousden KH. Development of an inducible mouse model of iRFP713 to track recombinase activity and tumour development in vivo. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1837. [PMID: 28500323 PMCID: PMC5431786 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01741-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
While the use of bioluminescent proteins for molecular imaging is a powerful technology to further our understanding of complex processes, fluorescent labeling with visible light fluorescent proteins such as GFP and RFP suffers from poor tissue penetration and high background autofluorescence. To overcome these limitations, we generated an inducible knock-in mouse model of iRFP713. This model was used to assess Cre activity in a Rosa Cre-ER background and quantify Cre activity upon different tamoxifen treatments in several organs. We also show that iRFP can be readily detected in 3D organoid cultures, FACS analysis and in vivo tumour models. Taken together we demonstrate that iRFP713 is a progressive step in in vivo imaging and analysis that widens the optical imaging window to the near-infrared spectrum, thereby allowing deeper tissue penetration, quicker image acquisition without the need to inject substrates and a better signal to background ratio in genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas K Hock
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Eric C Cheung
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Timothy J Humpton
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Tiziana Monteverde
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Viola Paulus-Hock
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Pearl Lee
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Ewan McGhee
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | | | - Daniel J Murphy
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Douglas Strathdee
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Karen Blyth
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Karen H Vousden
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK.
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7
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Genevois C, Loiseau H, Couillaud F. In Vivo Follow-up of Brain Tumor Growth via Bioluminescence Imaging and Fluorescence Tomography. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17111815. [PMID: 27809256 PMCID: PMC5133816 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17111815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Reporter gene-based strategies are widely used in experimental oncology. Bioluminescence imaging (BLI) using the firefly luciferase (Fluc) as a reporter gene and d-luciferin as a substrate is currently the most widely employed technique. The present paper compares the performances of BLI imaging with fluorescence imaging using the near infrared fluorescent protein (iRFP) to monitor brain tumor growth in mice. Fluorescence imaging includes fluorescence reflectance imaging (FRI), fluorescence diffuse optical tomography (fDOT), and fluorescence molecular Imaging (FMT®). A U87 cell line was genetically modified for constitutive expression of both the encoding Fluc and iRFP reporter genes and assayed for cell, subcutaneous tumor and brain tumor imaging. On cultured cells, BLI was more sensitive than FRI; in vivo, tumors were first detected by BLI. Fluorescence of iRFP provided convenient tools such as flux cytometry, direct detection of the fluorescent protein on histological slices, and fluorescent tomography that allowed for 3D localization and absolute quantification of the fluorescent signal in brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Coralie Genevois
- Molecular Imaging and Innovative Therapy in Oncology (IMOTION), EA 7435, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux 33076, France.
| | - Hugues Loiseau
- Molecular Imaging and Innovative Therapy in Oncology (IMOTION), EA 7435, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux 33076, France.
| | - Franck Couillaud
- Molecular Imaging and Innovative Therapy in Oncology (IMOTION), EA 7435, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux 33076, France.
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8
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Sharkey J, Scarfe L, Santeramo I, Garcia-Finana M, Park BK, Poptani H, Wilm B, Taylor A, Murray P. Imaging technologies for monitoring the safety, efficacy and mechanisms of action of cell-based regenerative medicine therapies in models of kidney disease. Eur J Pharmacol 2016; 790:74-82. [PMID: 27375077 PMCID: PMC5063540 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2016.06.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of end stage kidney disease is rising annually and it is now a global public health problem. Current treatment options are dialysis or renal transplantation, which apart from their significant drawbacks in terms of increased morbidity and mortality, are placing an increasing economic burden on society. Cell-based Regenerative Medicine Therapies (RMTs) have shown great promise in rodent models of kidney disease, but clinical translation is hampered due to the lack of adequate safety and efficacy data. Furthermore, the mechanisms whereby the cell-based RMTs ameliorate injury are ill-defined. For instance, it is not always clear if the cells directly replace damaged renal tissue, or whether paracrine effects are more important. Knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effects of cell therapies is crucial because it could lead to the development of safer and more effective RMTs in the future. To address these questions, novel in vivo imaging strategies are needed to monitor the biodistribution of cell-based RMTs and evaluate their beneficial effects on host tissues and organs, as well as any potential adverse effects. In this review we will discuss how state-of-the-art imaging modalities, including bioluminescence, magnetic resonance, nuclear imaging, ultrasound and an emerging imaging technology called multispectral optoacoustic tomography, can be used in combination with various imaging probes to track the fate and biodistribution of cell-based RMTs in rodent models of kidney disease, and evaluate their effect on renal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Sharkey
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK; Centre for Preclinical Imaging, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Lauren Scarfe
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK; Centre for Preclinical Imaging, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Ilaria Santeramo
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Marta Garcia-Finana
- Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Brian K Park
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Pharmacology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Harish Poptani
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK; Centre for Preclinical Imaging, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Bettina Wilm
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK; Centre for Preclinical Imaging, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Arthur Taylor
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK; Centre for Preclinical Imaging, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK
| | - Patricia Murray
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK; Centre for Preclinical Imaging, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GE, UK.
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Wang D, He J, Qiao H, Li P, Fan Y, Li D. Noncontact full-angle fluorescence molecular tomography system based on rotary mirrors. APPLIED OPTICS 2015; 54:7062-70. [PMID: 26368376 DOI: 10.1364/ao.54.007062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
We propose a novel noncontact fluorescence molecular tomography system that achieves full-angle capacity with the use of a new rotary-mirrors-based imaging head. In the imaging head, four plane mirrors are mounted on a rotating gantry to enable illumination and detection over 360°. In comparison with existing full-angle systems, our system does not require rotation of the specimen animal, a large and heavy light source (with scanning head), or a bulky camera (with filters and lens). The system design and implementation are described in detail. Both physical phantom and in vivo experiments are performed to verify the performance of the proposed system.
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10
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Ultrafast excited-state dynamics and fluorescence deactivation of near-infrared fluorescent proteins engineered from bacteriophytochromes. Sci Rep 2015; 5:12840. [PMID: 26246319 PMCID: PMC4526943 DOI: 10.1038/srep12840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Near-infrared fluorescent proteins, iRFPs, are recently developed genetically encoded fluorescent probes for deep-tissue in vivo imaging. Their functions depend on the corresponding fluorescence efficiencies and electronic excited state properties. Here we report the electronic excited state deactivation dynamics of the most red-shifted iRFPs: iRFP702, iRFP713 and iRFP720. Complementary measurements by ultrafast broadband fluorescence and absorption spectroscopy show that single exponential decays of the excited state with 600~700 ps dominate in all three iRFPs, while photoinduced isomerization was completely inhibited. Significant kinetic isotope effects (KIE) were observed with a factor of ~1.8 in D2O, and are interpreted in terms of an excited-state proton transfer (ESPT) process that deactivates the excited state in competition with fluorescence and chromophore mobility. On this basis, new approaches for rational molecular engineering may be applied to iRFPs to improve their fluorescence.
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11
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Chen X, Sun F, Yang D, Ren S, Zhang Q, Liang J. Hybrid simplified spherical harmonics with diffusion equation for light propagation in tissues. Phys Med Biol 2015; 60:6305-22. [DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/60/16/6305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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12
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Shcherbakova DM, Baloban M, Verkhusha VV. Near-infrared fluorescent proteins engineered from bacterial phytochromes. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2015; 27:52-63. [PMID: 26115447 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2015.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2015] [Revised: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Near-infrared fluorescent proteins (NIR FPs), photoactivatable NIR FPs and NIR reporters of protein-protein interactions developed from bacterial phytochrome photoreceptors (BphPs) have advanced non-invasive deep-tissue imaging. Here we provide a brief guide to the BphP-derived NIR probes with an emphasis on their in vivo applications. We describe phenotypes of NIR FPs and their photochemical and intracellular properties. We discuss NIR FP applications for imaging of various cell types, tissues and animal models in basic and translational research. In this discussion, we focus on NIR FPs that efficiently incorporate endogenous biliverdin chromophore and therefore can be used as straightforward as GFP-like proteins. We also overview a usage of NIR FPs in different imaging platforms, from planar epifluorescence to tomographic and photoacoustic technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria M Shcherbakova
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology and Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Mikhail Baloban
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology and Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Vladislav V Verkhusha
- Department of Anatomy and Structural Biology and Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00290, Finland.
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13
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Abstract
Optical imaging assays, especially fluorescence molecular assays, are minimally invasive if not completely noninvasive, and thus an ideal technique to be applied to live specimens. These fluorescence imaging assays are a powerful tool in biomedical sciences as they allow the study of a wide range of molecular and physiological events occurring in biological systems. Furthermore, optical imaging assays bridge the gap between the in vitro cell-based analysis of subcellular processes and in vivo study of disease mechanisms in small animal models. In particular, the application of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM), well-known techniques widely used in microscopy, to the optical imaging assay toolbox, will have a significant impact in the molecular study of protein-protein interactions during cancer progression. This review article describes the application of FLIM-FRET to the field of optical imaging and addresses their various applications, both current and potential, to anti-cancer drug delivery and cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpi Rajoria
- Albany Medical College, The Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany, NY, 12208
| | - Lingling Zhao
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Biomedical imaging Center and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Troy, NY 12180
| | - Xavier Intes
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Biomedical imaging Center and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Troy, NY 12180
| | - Margarida Barroso
- Albany Medical College, The Center for Cardiovascular Sciences, Albany, NY, 12208
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14
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Gene therapy and imaging in preclinical and clinical oncology: recent developments in therapy and theranostics. Ther Deliv 2014; 5:1275-96. [DOI: 10.4155/tde.14.87] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In the case of disseminated cancer, current treatment options reach their limit. Gene theranostics emerge as an innovative route in the treatment and diagnosis of cancer and might pave the way towards development of an efficacious treatment of currently incurable cancer. Various gene vectors have been developed to realize tumor-specific nucleic acid delivery and are considered crucial for the successful application of cancer gene therapy. By adding reporter genes and imaging agents, these systems gain an additional diagnostic function, thereby advancing the theranostic paradigm into cancer gene therapy. Numerous preclinical studies have demonstrated the feasibility of combined tumor gene therapy and diagnostic imaging, and clinical trials in human and veterinary oncology have been executed with partly encouraging results.
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Agollah GD, Wu G, Sevick-Muraca EM, Kwon S. In vivo lymphatic imaging of a human inflammatory breast cancer model. J Cancer 2014; 5:774-83. [PMID: 25368678 PMCID: PMC4216802 DOI: 10.7150/jca.9835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) remains the most aggressive type of breast cancer with the greatest potential for metastasis and as a result, the highest mortality rate. IBC cells invade and metastasize through dermal lymphatic vessels; however, it is unknown how lymphatic drainage patterns change during IBC growth and metastasis. Herein, we non-invasively and longitudinally imaged lymphatics in an animal model of IBC using near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS Mice were imaged in vivo prior to, and up to 11 weeks after subcutaneous or orthotopic inoculation of human IBC SUM149 cells, which were stably transfected with infrared fluorescence protein (iRFP) gene reporter (SUM149-iRFP), following intradermal (i.d.) injection of indocyanine green (ICG). RESULTS Fluorescence images showed well-defined lymphatic vessels prior to SUM149-iRFP inoculation. However, altered lymphatic drainage patterns including rerouting of lymphatic drainage were detected in mice with SUM149-iRFP, due to lymphatic obstruction of normal lymphatic drainages caused by tumor growth. In addition, we observed tortuous lymphatic vessels and extravasation of ICG-laden lymph in mice with SUM149-iRFP. We also observed increased and dilated fluorescent lymphatic vessels in the tumor periphery, which was confirmed by ex vivo immunohistochemical staining of lymphatic vessels. CONCLUSIONS Our pre-clinical studies demonstrate that non-invasive NIRF imaging can provide a method to assess changes in lymphatic drainage patterns during IBC growth and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germaine D Agollah
- 1. Center for Molecular Imaging, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030; ; 2. The University of Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences at Houston. The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Grace Wu
- 1. Center for Molecular Imaging, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Eva M Sevick-Muraca
- 1. Center for Molecular Imaging, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Sunkuk Kwon
- 1. Center for Molecular Imaging, The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030
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Sevick-Muraca EM, Kwon S, Rasmussen JC. Emerging lymphatic imaging technologies for mouse and man. J Clin Invest 2014; 124:905-14. [PMID: 24590275 DOI: 10.1172/jci71612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The lymphatic circulatory system has diverse functions in lipid absorption, fluid homeostasis, and immune surveillance and responds dynamically when presented with infection, inflammation, altered hemodynamics, and cancer. Visualization of these dynamic processes in human disease and animal models of disease is key to understanding the contributory role of the lymphatic circulatory system in disease and to devising effective therapeutic strategies. Longitudinal, non-destructive, and repeated imaging is necessary to expand our understanding of disease progression and regression in basic science and clinical investigations. Herein we summarize recent advances in in vivo lymphatic imaging employing magnetic resonance, computed tomography, lymphoscintigraphy, and emerging optical techniques with respect to their contributory roles in both basic science and clinical research investigations.
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Darne C, Lu Y, Sevick-Muraca EM. Small animal fluorescence and bioluminescence tomography: a review of approaches, algorithms and technology update. Phys Med Biol 2013; 59:R1-64. [PMID: 24334634 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/59/1/r1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Emerging fluorescence and bioluminescence tomography approaches have several common, yet several distinct features from established emission tomographies of PET and SPECT. Although both nuclear and optical imaging modalities involve counting of photons, nuclear imaging techniques collect the emitted high energy (100-511 keV) photons after radioactive decay of radionuclides while optical techniques count low-energy (1.5-4.1 eV) photons that are scattered and absorbed by tissues requiring models of light transport for quantitative image reconstruction. Fluorescence imaging has been recently translated into clinic demonstrating high sensitivity, modest tissue penetration depth, and fast, millisecond image acquisition times. As a consequence, the promise of quantitative optical tomography as a complement of small animal PET and SPECT remains high. In this review, we summarize the different instrumentation, methodological approaches and schema for inverse image reconstructions for optical tomography, including luminescence and fluorescence modalities, and comment on limitations and key technological advances needed for further discovery research and translation.
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