Biodegradable Near-Infrared-IIb Rare-Earth Nanoprobe Enables Time-Programmable Neuroimaging

Neural imaging plays a crucial role in understanding the structure and function of the living body. While near-infrared-II (NIR-II) imaging techniques have emerged as potential tools for non-invasive and high-resolution imaging of neural activity, there have been rare relevant reports on in vivo neural imaging. This study presents the development of biodegradable NIR-II rare-earth nanoprobes as a novel contrast agent for enhanced neural imaging. The biodegradable NIR-II rare-earth nanoprobes exhibit excellent long wavelength emission, high quantum yield, and tunable biodegradation time in vivo. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of these nanoprobes in enhancing the imaging depth and resolution in a mouse model of neural activity, thereby facilitating a better understanding of the structure and function of the nervous system. Furthermore, their biodegradability ensures minimal long-term toxicity and allows for repeatedly monitoring of damaged nerves during the recovery or deterioration process. The results highlight the potential of biodegradable NIR-II rare-earth nanoprobes for advancing neural imaging techniques and facilitating deeper insights into neuroscience research and clinical diagnostics.