| Posted: August 26, 2010 |
A peek into the future of cell imaging |
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(Nanowerk News) The project ENCITE - European Network for Cell Imaging and Tracking Expertise - was submitted to the call HEALTH-2007-1.2-4 "In vivo image-guidance for cell therapy" and is funded by the European Commission within the 7th Framework Programme. This large integrated project, co-ordinated by EIBIR, began on June 1st, 2008.
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The imaging tools developed so far should improve monitoring of cell therapy and improve the understanding of the fate of transplanted cells and the mechanism of action of cell-based therapies. Using the knowledge obtained in these studies, tools and treatment strategies can be further optimised to reap the full benefit of cell-based therapies.
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Novel imaging technologies: Key methodologies for cell tracking were developed and optimised, including imaging methods for specific contrast agents and new biomarkers to monitor cell fate, and meaningful integration and post-processing of imaging data, including molecular, functional, and anatomical data. MR-based cell tracking was implemented, and methods for preclinical drug evaluation were optimised. 3D and 4D MRI datasets from brain and heart, generated under various (contrast) conditions, form the backbone of the new, publicly available mouse and rat atlases.
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Novel imaging reporter probes: High-relaxivity, Gd-based probes and Gd-loaded nanosystems were developed and tested. MRI detectability was assessed in vitro. A Gd-based platform responsive to enzyme activity and thus gene expression was developed. As a start towards targeting, a process to coat gram-amounts of iron oxide particles for use in binding was developed. Constructs with optical and MRI reporter genes were developed. Bicistrionic vector was generated and introduced into embryonic stem cells.
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Novel tools for cell labeling: Protocols for cell labeling were established. Tailored protocols for specific cells and specific contrast media proved necessary, as was expected (report period 1). Use of reporter probes for monitoring cell differentiation and programmed cell death proved to be feasible in animal models. Evaluation of the potential for in vivo, clinical imaging of cell fate and cell death is in progress.
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Pre-clinical validation: Novel 19F- and Gd-based probes and MRS techniques improved monitoring of neuronal stem cell fate and tissue repair in stroke models. New MR acquisition and image processing techniques gave sensitive, quantitative detection of labeled cells in the heart. Biomarkers for intervertebral disc and cartilage degeneration were defined using e.g. double quantum filtered MRI and multinuclear NMR. A new dual-modality probe was successful in pancreatic cell labeling experiments; also, a positive contrast technique for iron oxide particles was developed. New methods to track the fate and interactions of dendritic and NK cells were validated using multiphoton microscopy, PET imaging, and MR spectroscopy. Detailed analysis of T-cell effector functions was made possible by new methods to monitor tumor cell nuclear states. A robust, spontaneous, orthotopic prostate cancer model was developed in transgenic mice. Finally, optical techniques to monitor tumor cell-T cell interactions and apoptosis were developed.
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Translation towards clinical applications: Translation towards clinical cancer applications started with establishment of an infrastructure for the production of tracers. Regarding diabetes, 8 patients with labeled pancreatic islets were examined according to the developed protocol (45 examinations).
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ENCITE birthed an extensive network for development and implementation of novel imaging tools in the field of cellular therapy. The ultimate goal is (image-guided) cellular therapy in widespread clinical use, offering potential cure for many diseases, including cancer and infectious diseases.
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Given the results achieved in the first two years, ENCITE´s goal is within reach. The spectrum of applications spans the scientific process, embodying translational research. The toolbox can be adapted to new studies. Results obtained in the field of novel imaging reporter probes and cell labeling procedures are extremely encouraging.
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