SGER: Biophotonics: Nano-based Contrast Agent for Molecular Optical-based Imaging of Prostate Cancer

University Of Texas Medical Branch At Galveston, Galveston TX

Investigators

Abstract

Motamedi 0632281 The applicant proposes to enhance prostate tumor targeting by functionalizing nanogold particles with aptamers that specifically will bind to prostatic specific membrane antigen (PSMA), a well characterized antigen expressed on the surface of prostate cancer cells. This antigen could provide an ideal targeting site with high affinity for early in vivo molecular imaging of prostate cancer. The goal of the project is to demonstrate the ability to design, functionalize and optimize gold particles for in vivo targeting of PSMA for early detection of prostate cancer using optical imaging techniques.