Using the over-1000 nm near-infrared (OTN-NIR) dye IR-1061-loaded polymer micelles, IR-1061-loaded PEG-b-PCL micelles (OTN-PNPs) were successfully obtained using a simple one-pot preparation method. The OTN-PNPs showed strong OTN-NIR emission under physiological conditions. Furthermore, the OTN-PNPs were readily biodegradable; thus, it is anticipated that the renal clearance of the degraded material will occur after imaging experiments. Moreover, in vivo imaging of a live mouse was successfully performed. The blood vessels of a live mouse could be clearly illuminated using the OTN-NIR emission of OTN-PNPs. Therefore, the OTN-PNPs are promising candidates for NIR imaging probes.
- Masao Kamimura
- Shoko Takahiro
- Kohei Soga