Trianthracene Derivative Based Nanoparticles for in vivo Afterglow Imaging of Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) constitutes a cluster of disorders resulting from external physical forces that undermine the structure or function of the brain. TBI brings high disability and mortality rates to patients. Hence, the early diagnosis of TBI is of utmost importance. Current approaches mainly encompass computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging; however, there are still constraints in diagnosing TBI due to limited spatial resolution and long scan durations. Herein, based on the advantages of low imaging background, high signal-to-background ratio, excellent tissue penetration, and high sensitivity of afterglow imaging, we have developed a trianthracene derivative (TA)-based nanoparticle for non-invasive afterglow imaging of TBI. Compared with fluorescence imaging, TA-NPs demonstrate a deeper tissue penetration depth (up to 2.5 cm) and a higher signal-to-noise ratio. After injection via the tail vein, TA-NPs can accumulate in the TBI area within the brain parenchyma and achieve in vivo detection of TBI within a short period (within 1 h), which is beneficial for the early diagnosis of TBI. Additionally, TA-NPs can also accomplish precise afterglow imaging of brain injuries with lower severity. The TA-NPs-based afterglow imaging developed herein will significantly facilitate the early diagnosis of TBI and provide robust evidence for its subsequent treatment.