Long-term monitoring of intravital biological processes using fluorescent protein-assisted NIR-II imaging

Muxiong Chen, Zhe Feng, Xiaoxiao Fan, Jun Sun, Weihang Geng, Tianxiang Wu, Jinghao Sheng (), Jun Qian () and Zhengping Xu ()
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Muxiong Chen: Zhejiang University School of Medicine
Zhe Feng: Zhejiang University
Xiaoxiao Fan: Zhejiang University
Jun Sun: Zhejiang University School of Medicine
Weihang Geng: Zhejiang University
Tianxiang Wu: Zhejiang University
Jinghao Sheng: Zhejiang University School of Medicine
Jun Qian: Zhejiang University
Zhengping Xu: Zhejiang University School of Medicine

Nature Communications, 2022, vol. 13, issue 1, 1-11

Abstract: Abstract High spatial resolution, low background, and deep tissue penetration have made near-infrared II (NIR-II) fluorescence imaging one of the most critical tools for in vivo observation and measurement. However, the relatively short retention time and potential toxicity of synthetic NIR-II fluorophores limit their long-term application. Here, we report the use of infrared fluorescent proteins (iRFPs) as in vitro and in vivo NIR-II probes permitting prolonged continuous imaging (up to 15 months). As a representative example, iRFP713 is knocked into the mouse genome to generate a transgenic model to allow temporal and/or spatial expression control of the probe. To demonstrate its feasibility in a genuine diagnostic context, we adopt two liver regeneration models and successfully track the process for a week. The performance and monitoring efficacy are comparable to those of μCT and superior to those of indocyanine green dye. We are also able to effectively observe the pancreas, despite its deep location, under both physiological and pathological conditions. These results indicate that the iRFP-assisted NIR-II fluorescence system is suitable for monitoring various tissues and in vivo biological processes, providing a powerful noninvasive long-term imaging platform.

Date: 2022
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34274-w

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