19F MRI in orthotopic cancer model via intratracheal administration of ανβ3-targeted perfluorocarbon nanoparticles

AIM: To demonstrate the feasibility of intratracheal administration in orthotopic lung cancer model with 19F MRI. MATERIALS & METHODS: αvβ3-integrin targeting ability of the perfluorocarbon (PFC) nanoparticles was tested. Orthotopic lung cancer model was established in rabbits under computed tomography guidance. αvβ3-targeted PFC nanoparticles were administrated intratracheally or intravenously, and 19F MRI was performed before and up to 24 h after administration. RESULTS: The targeted PFC nanoparticles could bind with αvβ3-integrin. PFC concentrations in the tumors of intratracheal group after administration were significantly higher than intravenous group. CONCLUSION: Intratracheal administration of PFC nanoparticles was shown to be feasible and efficacious. 19F MRI with αvβ3-targeted PFC nanoparticles provided quantitative assessment of nanoparticles distribution and tumor angiogenesis.