Preclinical evaluation of molecularly targeted fluorescent probes in perfused amputated human limbs

SIGNIFICANCE: This first-in-kind, perfused, and amputated human limb model allows for the collection of human data in preclinical selection of lead fluorescent agents. The model facilitates more accurate selection and testing of fluorophores with human-specific physiology, such as differential uptake and signal in fat between animal and human models with zero risk to human patients. Preclinical testing using this approach may also allow for the determination of tissue toxicity, clearance time of fluorophores, and the production of harmful metabolites. AIM: This study was conducted to determine the fluorescence intensity values and tissue specificity of a preclinical, nerve tissue targeted fluorophore, as well as the capacity of this first-in-kind model to be used for lead fluorescent agent selection in the future. APPROACH: Freshly amputated human limbs were perfused for 30 min prior to in situ and ex vivo imaging of nerves with both open-field and closed-field commercial fluorescence imaging systems. RESULTS: In situ, open-field imaging demonstrated a signal-to-background ratio (SBR) of 4.7 when comparing the nerve with adjacent muscle tissue. Closed-field imaging demonstrated an SBR of 3.8 when the nerve was compared with adipose tissue and 4.8 when the nerve was compared with muscle. CONCLUSIONS: This model demonstrates an opportunity for preclinical testing, evaluation, and selection of fluorophores for use in clinical trials as well as an opportunity to study peripheral pathologies in a controlled environment.