Fluorescence-quenching of a Liposomal-encapsulated Near-infrared Fluorophore as a Tool for In Vivo Optical ImagingFelista L. Tansi *1, Ronny Rüger *2, Markus Rabenhold 2, Frank Steiniger 3, Alfred Fahr 2, Ingrid Hilger 1
1Experimental Radiology, Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology I, Jena University Hospital, 2Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, 3Center for Electron Microscopy, Jena University Hospital
The use of fluorophores for in vivo imaging can be greatly limited by opsonization, rapid clearance, low detection sensitivity and cytotoxic effects on the host. Encapsulation of fluorophores in liposomes by film hydration and extrusion leads to fluorescence quenching and protection which enables in vivo imaging with high detection sensitivity.