An acidic pH/reduction dual-stimuli responsive nanoprobe for enhanced CT imaging of tumours in vivo.

Computed tomography (CT) is one of the most frequently used diagnostic imaging modalities in clinics. However, the fast clearance of CT contrast agents through the kidney and short circulation time severely restrict their in vivo applications. Herein, taking advantage of the biocompatible CBT condensation reaction, we rationally designed and synthesized a new smart acidic pH/glutathione (GSH) dual-stimuli responsive nanoprobe (1) which can intermolecularly undergo condensation and form a nanoparticle assembly (I-NPs) in the tumour microenvironment. In vivo CT imaging results indicated that probe 1 could be successfully applied for enhanced CT imaging of tumours in nude mice with a low dose of 21.79 mg I per kg body weight, which may offer a promising tool for precise tumor diagnosis.