Immunospecific targeting of CD45 expressing lymphoid cells: Towards improved detection agents of the sentinel lymph node

This study was designed to demonstrate the potential of small nanoparticulate lymphotropic contrast agents designed to bind with high affinity to lymphoid cells overexpressing the CD45 antigen. To this end, small gold nanoparticles used as model were conjugated to anti-CD45 antibodies and injected in mice in the dorsal toe of the fore/hind paw. Chemical analysis demonstrated rapid uptake and transport of the nanoparticles in the lymphatic as well as significant retention of the nanoparticles with high binding affinity to lymphoid cells in the popliteal and axillary lymph nodes in comparison to non-targeted nanoparticles.

► Lymphotropic nanoparticle contrast agents were designed to bind with high affinity and specificity to CD45+ lymphoid cells.
► Small nanoparticles (∼20 nm) transported rapidly in the lymphatic.
► Nanoparticles targeted to CD45+ lymphoid cells were efficiently retained in draining lymph nodes.
► CD45 based targeting of nanoparticles is a promising alternative to mannose-based imaging agents of the sentinel lymph node.