We show that mannan-based conjugates possess exceptional features for multimodal imaging because of their biocompatibility, biodegradability and self-targeting properties. Two new mannan conjugates, containing a gadolinium complex and a fluorescent probe, one based only on polysaccharide and the other one comprising polysaccharide with poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) grafts, were prepared and simultaneously visualized in vitro and in vivo by magnetic resonance and fluorescence imaging. The synthesis of these mannan-based complexes was based on alkylation with allyl bromide or grafting with poly(2-methyl-2-oxazoline) chains, followed by a thiol-ene click reaction with cysteamine to introduce primary amino groups into their structure. Finally, the obtained conjugates were functionalized with contrast labels using the corresponding N-hydroxysuccinimide esters. When used to detect lymph nodes, the polymers showed better imaging properties than a commercially available contrast agent.

Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic Prague Czech Republic

References provided by Crossref.org

Long-term in vivo dissolution of thermo- and pH-responsive, 19F magnetic resonance-traceable and injectable polymer implants

Mannan-Based Nanodiagnostic Agents for Targeting Sentinel Lymph Nodes and Tumors

Fluorine polymer probes for magnetic resonance imaging: quo vadis?