In situ targeted MRI detection of Helicobacter pylori with stable magnetic graphitic nanocapsules

Abstract

AbstractHelicobacter pyloriinfection is implicated in the aetiology of many diseases. Despite numerous studies, a painless, fast and direct method for thein situdetection ofH. pyloriremains a challenge, mainly due to the strong acidic/enzymatic environment of the gastric mucosa. Herein, we report the use of stable magnetic graphitic nanocapsules (MGNs), forin situtargeted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) detection ofH. pylori. Several layers of graphene as the shell effectively protect the magnetic core from corrosion while retaining the superior contrast effect for MRI in the gastric environment. Boronic-polyethylene glycol molecules were synthesized and modified on the MGN surface for targeted MRI detection. In a mouse model ofH. pylori-induced infection,H. pyloriwas specifically detected through both T2-weighted MR imaging and Raman gastric mucosa imaging using functionalized MGNs. These results indicated that enhancement of MRI using MGNs may be a promising diagnostic and bioimaging platform for very harsh conditions.