MULTI-FUNCTIONAL NANOMATERIALS FOR BRAIN TUMOR IMAGING AND THERAPY

Abstract

Brain tumor remains as one of the most challenging cancers. Current clinical practice of brain tumor diagnosis mostly relies on contrast agent-enhanced imaging. Ideally, fast and detailed visualization of brain structures or targeted regions in different depths are highly desired. To compensate for the limitations of single imaging modality, extra imaging techniques could be involved as a complementary strategy. Using a single nano-formulation which can act as multimodal contrast agents is more advantageous, especially in terms of spatial and temporal biodistribution. Herein, various designs of biocompatible multimodal contrast agents for in vivo brain tumor photoacoustic, fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging and phtotothermal therapy are presented. By engineering and modifying the structural arrangement, the imaging performance of nanomaterials has been optimized. Further, various strategies such as ligand attachment, cell membrane coating and utilizing neutrophil as delivery carriers have been proposed to improve the targeted delivery of contrast agents towards brain tumor.