Fucoidan-modified PLGA nanoparticles for integrated diagnosis and treatment of thrombosis

Thrombosis is a critical marker of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke and myocardial infarction. Timely diagnosis and dissolution of thrombi can significantly reduce patient mortality risk. Theranostic nanoparticles with targeting capabilities offer a promising solution to this issue. We developed fucoidan-modified PLGA nanoparticles loaded with indocyanine green (ICG) and lumbrokinase (LK) (FCP-ICG@LK NPs) to achieve integrated diagnosis and treatment of thrombotic diseases while minimizing hemorrhagic risks. Targeting experiments demonstrated the affinity of fucoidan for P-selectin. In a mouse model of carotid thrombosis, FCP-ICG@LK NPs demonstrated excellent diagnostic and monitoring capabilities while effectively dissolving thrombi under near-infrared light. Compared with free LK, FCP-ICG@LK NPs showed better thrombolysis effects at the same dose. Furthermore, bleeding risk assessment experiments indicated that FCP-ICG@LK NPs do not induce hemorrhagic risks. FCP-ICG@LK NPs showed no significant cytotoxicity or hemolysis. These results indicate that fucoidan-modified PLGA drug-loaded nanoparticles are a promising thrombus-targeted theranostic agent.