Targeted Imaging of Orthotopic Prostate Cancer by Using Clinical Transformable Photoacoustic Molecular Probe

Abstract Background: To obtain high yield histological samples by targeted PCa biopsy is the current trend compared of transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) guided systematic histological biopsy which is regarded as golden standard for prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis. In this paper, we present a targeted PCa imaging strategy using real-time molecular photoacoustic imaging system integrated with handheld US probe (PAI/US) and synthesized integrin αvβ3 targeted probe based on ICG (cRGD–ICG). Results: A small molecular PAI probe was synthesized and proved excellent targeted imaging ability in vitro. In vivo photoacoustic imaging was carried out after intravenous injection of cRGD-ICG in orthotopic PCa bearing beard rats under facilitation of PAI/US system. Maximum molecular photoacoustic signals were observed in the tumor area in vivo post probe injection, which showed 3.8 folds higher signal enhancement than in the control group (P < 0.05, respectively). Significant higher cRGD-ICG accumulation was observed under confocal microscopy in tumor region rather than normal prostate tissue. Conclusions: All our results showed that the comprehensive strategy provided a high-yield and reliable method for PCa diagnosis and targeted prostate biopsy, with great clinical transforming potential.