In vivo targeting and multimodal imaging of cerebral amyloid-beta aggregates using hybrid GdF3 nanoparticles

Aim: To propose a new multimodal imaging agent targeting amyloid-beta (A beta) plaques in Alzheimer's disease. Materials & methods: A new generation of hybrid contrast agents, based on gadolinium fluoride nanoparticles grafted with a pentameric luminescent-conjugated polythiophene, was designed, extensively characterized and evaluated in animal models of Alzheimer's disease through MRI, two-photon microscopy and synchrotron x-ray phase-contrast imaging. Results & conclusion: Two different grafting densities of luminescent-conjugated polythiophene were achieved while preserving colloidal stability and fluorescent properties, and without affecting biodistribution. In vivo brain uptake was dependent on the blood-brain barrier status. Nevertheless, multimodal imaging showed successful A beta targeting in both transgenic mice and A beta fibril-injected rats.