Core-Shell Upconversion Nanoparticle@Metal-Organic Framework Nanoprobes for Luminescent/Magnetic Dual-Mode Targeted Imaging.

Core-shell upconversion nanoparticle@metal-organic framework (UCNP@MOF) nanostructures are constructed by coating hexagonal NaYF4 :Yb,Er nanoparticle (NP) cores with amino-functionalized iron carboxylate MOF shells. These nanostructures combine the near-infrared optical property of the UCNP cores and the T2 -magnetic response (MR) imaging property of the MOF shells. After surface modification, the core-shell nanostructures are demonstrated as high-resolution nanoprobes for targeted luminescence/MR imaging both in vitro and in vivo.