Objectives: The current methods for detecting myelin changes in ischemic stroke are indirect and cannot accurately reflect their status. This study aimed to develop a novel fluorescent-magnetic resonance dual-modal molecular imaging probe for direct imaging of myelin.
Methods: Compounds 7a and 7b were synthesized by linking the MeDAS group and Gadolinium (III) 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetate. Compound 7a was selected for characterization and further study. Cell uptake, cytotoxicity, and magnetic resonance imaging scans were performed on cells. In vitro experiments on frozen brain sections from 7-day-old, 8-week-old, and ischemic stroke rats were compared with commercially available Luxol Fast Blue staining. After HPLC and MR scanning, brain tissue was soaked in 7a and scanned using T1WI and T1maps sequences.
Results: Spectrophotometer results showed that compounds 7a and 7b had fluorescent properties. MR scans indicated that the compounds had contrast agent properties. Cells could uptake 7a and exhibited high signals in imaging scans. Compound 7a brain tissue staining showed more fluorescence in myelin-rich regions and identified injury sites in ischemic stroke rats. MR scanning of brain sections provided clear myelin contrast.
Conclusion: A novel fluorescent-magnetic resonance dual-modal molecular imaging probe for direct imaging of myelin was successfully developed and tested in rats with ischemic stroke. These findings provide new insights for the clinical diagnosis of demyelinating diseases.
Keywords: Contrast enhancement; Fluorescence-magnetic resonance; Ischemic stroke; Magnetic resonance imaging; Myelin sheath.
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