Gavin Kenny1, Nazila Kamaly1,2, Tammy Kalber1, Andrew D. Miller3, Jimmy Bell1
1Metabolic and Molecular Imaging Group, Imaging Sciences Department, MRC Clinical Sciences Centre, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College, London, UK; 2Imperial College Genetic Therapies Centre, Department of Chemistry, Imperial College , London, UK; 3Imperial College Genetic Therapies Centre, Department of Chemistry, Imperial College, London, UK
The aim of this study was to monitor liposomal encapsulated siRNA delivery to tumours in vivo using MR and optical imaging techniques. The liposomes were formulated to include lipids containing MR and optical labels. The siRNA was labelled with FITC to confirm delivery by the liposome to the tumour. The siRNA-liposome was found to reduce T1 significantly at 16 hours post dose and liposome accumulation in the tumour was confirmed by histology. These results suggest that liposomal encapsulated siRNA can be used as a therapeutic delivery method with MR and optical techniques to monitor delivery and efficacy.