CRC 1450 - A01: Cell-type specific multiscale imaging of leukocytes through the combination of protein tagging and radiochemical labelling

Basic data for this project

Description

This project provides innovative solutions for in vivo imaging of distinct leukocyte populations, crucial for understanding their dynamics and roles in inflammation. By using radioactive labels, robust readouts are achieved in whole-body imaging experiments. Existing ex vivo labeling methods for immune cells, such as monocytes, macrophages, and ER-HoxB8-derived myeloid progenitor cells, face challenges in maintaining long-term label stability in vivo. To address this, versatile platforms have been developed based on SNAP-Tag substrate complexes and specific nanobody-based cell labeling. The nanobody platform utilizes the MoonTag peptide epitope and its corresponding MoonTag nanobody to genetically tag cells on the surface, enabling enhanced tracking through fluorescent and radioactive labeling. In vitro validation has shown successful signal amplification correlating with the number of tags, while in vivo PET imaging in tumor xenografts demonstrated effective use of the poly-MoonTag epitope and 68Ga-labeled MoonTag nanobody. Future efforts will focus on improving the signal-to-noise ratio by using better suitable and further chemically functionalized nanobodies. Additionally, new methods will be developed to enhance the inherently low specific activity in standard labeling procedures. The goal is to successfully implement these validated and further improved tagging strategies for immune cell imaging in vivo. We are strongly connected to several projects within the CRC and would be happy to answer your questions.