J-Aggregation induced NIR-II fluorescence: an aza-BODIPY luminogen for efficient phototheranostics

J Mater Chem B. 2023 Oct 18;11(40):9712-9720. doi: 10.1039/d3tb01280h.

Abstract

The development of organic dyes with emission peaks in the second near-infrared window (NIR-II 1000-1700 nm) is highly desirable for in vivo imaging and imaging-guided phototheranostics. However, the lack of appropriate molecular frameworks and the challenges associated with complex synthesis critically hinder the development of new candidate fluorophores. J-Aggregation is considered as a smart and straightforward way to construct such a therapeutic agent with NIR-II fluorescence imaging properties. Here, we present the design and synthesis of an aza-BODIPY probe (TA). Upon encapsulation within the amphiphilic polymer DSPEG-PEG2000-NH2, TA underwent self-assembly and formed J-aggregates (TAJ NPs), which showed emission at 1020 nm. High spatial resolution and adequate signal-to-noise ratio of the TAJ NPs are demonstrated for noninvasive bioimaging of the vasculature, lymph nodes and bones of mice in the NIR-II region. Moreover, the TAJ NPs exhibited good tumor enrichment efficiency with reduced liver accumulation and significant imaging-guided phototherapy performance against lung cancer cells. Taken together, this work not only introduces a new NIR-II imaging and phototheranostic agent based on J-aggregates, but also provides insight into the development of versatile organic dyes for future clinical implementation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Boron Compounds
  • Fluorescent Dyes / chemistry
  • Mice
  • Nanoparticles* / chemistry
  • Neoplasms* / therapy

Substances

  • azaBDPBA compound
  • Boron Compounds
  • Fluorescent Dyes