Optical Nanosensor for Intracellular and Intracranial Detection of Amyloid-Beta

Amyloid-beta (A beta) deposition occurs in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but the early detection of A beta is a persistent challenge. Herein, we engineered a near-infrared optical nanosensor capable of detecting A beta intracellularly in live cells and intracranially in vivo. The sensor is composed of single-walled carbon nanotubes functionalized with A beta wherein A beta-A beta interactions drive the response. We found that the A beta nanosensors selectively responded to A beta via solvatochromic modulation of the near-infrared emission of the nanotube. The sensor tracked A beta accumulation in live cells and, upon intracranial administration in a genetic model of AD, signaled distinct responses in aged mice. This technology enables the interrogation of molecular mechanisms underlying A beta neurotoxicity in the development of AD in living systems.

Automated summary

The researchers developed a near-infrared optical nanosensor that can detect the presence of A beta in live cells and mice. The sensor selectively responds to A beta through solvatochromic modulation, allowing for tracking of A beta accumulation. This technology provides insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying A beta neurotoxicity in the development of Alzheimer's disease.