Surface tailoring of PFCE-encapsulated PLGA nanoparticles: Improving serum stability and cellular uptake for advanced 19FMRI applications

The stability and biocompatibility of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles in 19F MRI applications are often hindered by non-specific interactions with serum proteins and inconsistent encapsulation of imaging agents. This research project addresses these limitations by developing a robust polyethylene glycol (PEG) attached PLGA nanoparticle system that enhances stability, reduces serum protein binding, and improves MRI signal efficiency. The primary objective is to create a nanoparticle platform that combines stability in physiological conditions with efficient 19F encapsulation for imaging. This is achieved by optimizing surface functionalization using well-defined, monodisperse PEG derivatives via carbodiimide chemistry, enabling precise control over surface characteristics. This targeted PEGylation strategy aims to improve nanoparticle properties, including surface charge, hydrodynamic size, and encapsulation efficiency, ensuring consistency and biocompatibility. Comprehensive characterization techniques, such as HPLC-MS, NMR, and fluorescence microscopy, are employed to evaluate the physicochemical and biological properties of the PEGylated nanoparticles. Stability testing in serum environments and cellular uptake studies in macrophage and cancer cell models further assess the effectiveness of the PEGylation. The anticipated outcome is a functional nanoparticle system with high potential for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, particularly in enhancing the accuracy and utility of 19F MRI.