University of Ottawa

Purpose

Technological advances in imaging instrumentation in the near-infrared (NIR) range (1,000-1,700 nm) have resulted in unparalleled improvements in fluorescence image resolution and depth of penetration in biological tissues, required for highly sensitive and selective biosensors and preclinical in vivo imaging. However, one major limitation for the clinical adoption of NIR imaging is the lack of biocompatible and powerful (high quantum yield, high brightness) NIR emitters. Lanthanide-doped nanoparticles (Ln-NPs) constitute an emerging class of nanomaterials with extraordinary potential to drive innovation in biomolecular imaging and quantum chemical sensing. However, the transformation of these Ln-NPs into multi-modal imaging probes, intelligent bio-sensors and theranostic agents requires innovative design engineering based on understanding of their structure-property relationships, biocompatibility, and nano-bio interactions. The Project will lead to the development of powerful bioprobes capable of non-invasive monitoring of biochemical changes and processes deep in the body and in clinical samples.