Near-infrared Fluorescent 6-0-glucosamine Compounds with Targeting Specificity to Lysosomes in Tumors

Optical imaging is a non-invasive, diagnostic imaging technology which can be used to inexpensively image pathological conditions with high sensitivity and low tissue irradiation. Technologies using near infrared (NIR) light are preferred in molecular imaging studies because its long wavelength causes less photodamage to cells, and offers better sensitivity. In previous studies, JHU researchers demonstrated that 6-O-glucosamine compounds could be used for biosynthetic fluorescence labeling of lysosomes in cell culture and in vivo tumors. Now, JHU scientists have combined the benefits of using non-invasive NIR optical imaging with novel NIR-fluorophore-bound glucosamine compounds to clinically track lysosomal trafficking in vivo. Description (Set) Proposed Use (Set) Cancer cells invade by secreting degradative enzymes, which, under normal conditions, are sequestered within lysosomal vesicles. The ability to label and track lysosomal trafficking in a non-invasive manner would be useful in detecting malignant lesions in their early stages or monitoring the efficacy of anti-cancer drugs. The NIR-fluorophore-bound glucosamine compounds may also prove useful as laboratory research tools.

Inventor(s): Glunde, Kristine

Type of Offer: Licensing



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