Novel ferrocenyl nitroxide nanoparticles as electron paramagnetic resonance oximetry probes in vitro and in vivo

Abstract

Aims: In this article we report our recent developments in the field of electron paramagnetic resonance oximetry. Materials & methods: Novel synthesized ferrocenyl nitroxide radicals (FcN)-1–6 were evaluated to determine their electron paramagnetic resonance oxygen responsiveness and reduction resistance. The 3-ferrocenyl-N-(oxyl-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-4-yl) butanamide radical (FcN-6), with outstanding electron paramagnetic resonance oxygen sensitivity, was encapsulated in Pluronic F-127 polymeric nanoparticles. Results: The nanoparticles exhibited good oxygen sensitivity, long-term stability of responsiveness, targeting to lung, liver and tumor, and low toxicity. Conclusion: These features make this novel nanoparticle especially valuable for mapping O2 concentrations in the body and monitoring the oxygen level inside tissues.