19F-Grafted Fluorescent Carbonized Polymer Dots for Dual-Mode Imaging

Dual-modal imaging systems could provide complementary information by taking advantage of each imaging modality. Herein, a fluorescence and 19F magnetic resonance imaging nanoprobe was developed through preparation of 19F-grafted fluorescent carbonized polymer dots (FCPDs). Both fluorescence and 19F nuclear magnetic resonance intensities of these FCPDs can be modulated by controlling the carbonization processes. The strong yellow fluorescence renders these FCPDs capable of cell fluorescence imaging. The in vitro and in vivo assessments demonstrated that the as-prepared FCPDs were suitable for 19F magnetic resonance imaging (19F MRI), which would provide great potential for biological imaging and early diagnosis applications. Moreover, this fabrication strategy offers a new protocol for 19F MRI nanoprobe design.