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“Multi-component nanoparticles as bimodal contrast agents for MRI and optical detection of tumors and for targeted photodynamic therapy”

Objective

The main aim of this proposal is to synthesize a range of lanthanide containing nanoparticles with an upconverting core, that can be excited in the infrared region to yield emission in the visible range, as for MRI and optical imaging. The nanoparticles will be covered with a rare earth doped MRI active shell and decorated with targeting moieties, which offers a means of targeting cancer cells that greatly over express the receptors. Further we will develop “phototheranostic” agents by anchoring the photo active anti cancer drug in between the receptors and the surface of upconverting/MRI active nanoparticle. A platform for synthesis of water soluble, modular target specific bimodal agents based on nanoprobes will be developed that will exhibit efficient upconverted photoluminescence from the rare-earth ions (Er3+/Tm3+) doped into fluoride nanomatrix. Simultaneously, the Tb3+/Dy3+/Ho3+ present at the shell will make them suitable as T2 contrast agents for MRI. Specific tumor targeting strategies will be developed by attaching targeting components like folic acid, cholesterol or cyclic-RGD to the surface of the nanoparticles. Functionalization of nanoparticles with [Pt(N3)2(OH)2(NH2-R)(py)] drug, which can be photoactivated by the blue light emitted from the nanoparticle core upon excitation at 980, will result in a novel phototheranostic anti-cancer agent. This system may allow a large degree of control of the therapeutic efficacy and ultimately lead to simultaneous diagnosis and treatment in clinical applications. The unique multidisciplinary approach adopted here which combines areas of nano-chemistry, spectroscopy and bio-imaging, is expected to lead to a disruptive change in the area of cancer research. The combination of these areas would allow for the first time the development of biocompatible “phototheranostic” agents for the simultaneous detection by MRI/optical imaging and cure of the cancer- affected tissues.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.

Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

MSCA-IF-EF-ST - Standard EF

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) H2020-MSCA-IF-2015

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Coordinator

KATHOLIEKE UNIVERSITEIT LEUVEN
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 172 800,00
Address
OUDE MARKT 13
3000 LEUVEN
Belgium

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Region
Vlaams Gewest Prov. Vlaams-Brabant Arr. Leuven
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Links
Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 172 800,00
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