Evaluation of the biodistribution of [18F]-labeled carbon dots

Carbon dots are spherical, nontoxic, biocompatible and discrete particles that have gained tremendous interest over the last years because of their ultra-compact nanosize, favourable biocompatibility and versatile surface engineering properties. They show significant potential for use in cellular imaging, biosensing, targeted drug delivery, theranostics and other biomedical applications.

This study shows that the large FOV in combination with the high spatio-temporal resolution of the β-CUBE makes it possible to evaluate the biodistribution of [18F]-labeled carbon dots (CDs). 3.3 MBq (89.1 µCi) of [18F]-CDs was injected in a mouse and scanned dynamically for 30 minutes. As a result of very short time frame reconstruction (1 second!) in the early take-up phase, it is possible to appreciate tracer injection and subsequent distribution throughout the body.

Image courtesy CIC BiomaGUNE, Spain.