A Bright NIR-II Fluorescence Probe for Vascular and Tumor Imaging

As an emerging imaging technology, near-infrared II (NIR-II, 1000-1700 nm) fluorescence imaging has significant potential in the biomedical field, owing to its high sensitivity, deep tissue penetration, and superior imaging with spatial and temporal resolution. However, the method to facilitate the implementation of NIR-II fluorescence imaging for some urgently needed fields, such as medical science and pharmacy, has puzzled relevant researchers. This protocol describes in detail the construction and bioimaging applications of a NIR-II fluorescence molecular probe, HLY1, with a D-A-D (donor-acceptor-donor) skeleton. HLY1 showed good optical properties and biocompatibility. Furthermore, NIR-II vascular and tumor imaging in mice was performed using a NIR-II optics imaging device. Real-time high-resolution NIR-II fluorescence images were acquired to guide the detection of tumors and vascular diseases. From probe preparation to data acquisition, the imaging quality is greatly improved, and the authenticity of the NIR-II molecular probes for data recording in intravital imaging is ensured.