The effect of nanoparticle size on theranostic systems: The optimal particle size for imaging is not necessarily optimal for drug delivery

Tamar Dreifuss, Oshra Betzer, Eran Barnoy, Menachem Motiei, Rachela Popovtzer

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Theranostics is an emerging field, defined as combination of therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities in the same material. Nanoparticles are considered as an efficient platform for theranostics, particularly in cancer treatment, as they offer substantial advantages over both common imaging contrast agents and chemotherapeutic drugs. However, the development of theranostic nanoplatforms raises an important question: Is the optimal particle for imaging also optimal for therapy? Are the specific parameters required for maximal drug delivery, similar to those required for imaging applications? Herein, we examined this issue by investigating the effect of nanoparticle size on tumor uptake and imaging. Anti-epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-conjugated gold nanoparticles (GNPs) in different sizes (diameter range: 20-120 nm) were injected to tumor bearing mice and their uptake by tumors was measured, as well as their tumor visualization capabilities as tumor-targeted CT contrast agent. Interestingly, the results showed that different particles led to highest tumor uptake or highest contrast enhancement, meaning that the optimal particle size for drug delivery is not necessarily optimal for tumor imaging. These results have important implications on the design of theranostic nanoplatforms.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationNanoscale Imaging, Sensing, and Actuation for Biomedical Applications XV
EditorsDan V. Nicolau, Alexander N. Cartwright, Dror Fixler
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Electronic)9781510614970
DOIs
StatePublished - 2018
EventNanoscale Imaging, Sensing, and Actuation for Biomedical Applications XV 2018 - San Francisco, United States
Duration: 30 Jan 201831 Jan 2018

Publication series

NameProgress in Biomedical Optics and Imaging - Proceedings of SPIE
Volume10506

Conference

ConferenceNanoscale Imaging, Sensing, and Actuation for Biomedical Applications XV 2018
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Francisco
Period30/01/1831/01/18

Keywords

  • Theranostics
  • cancer imaging and therapy
  • gold nanoparticles
  • molecular CT imaging
  • size effect
  • tumor uptake

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging
  • Biomaterials

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