Thyroid cancer MR molecular imaging via SHP2-targeted nanoparticles

BACKGROUND: Molecular imaging has generated a great demand to develop targeted contrast agents for MR imaging. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, we synthesized Src homology 2-containing phosphotyrosine phosphatase 2 (SHP2)-targeted and polylactic-co-glycolic acid–-based nanoparticles (NPs), which encapsulated perfluoropentane and being chelated with gadolinium (Gd(3+)) as an efficient molecular probe for targeting MR imaging on thyroid carcinoma. RESULTS: These NPs displayed practical properties and favorable biocompatibility in vitro. Furthermore, they showed abilities to specifically target thyroid cancer and enhance MRI as a contrast agent in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. CONCLUSION: This novel MR molecular imaging based on this SHP2-targeted contrast agent provides a useful and non-invasive method for the early detection of thyroid carcinoma.