Abstract
We established nano-particles loaded with indocyanine green (ICG) derivatives: ICG loaded lactosomes (ICGm) and investigated the diagnostic and therapeutic value of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using ICGm for experimental peritoneal dissemination of gastric cancer. Experimental peritoneal disseminaion of human gastric cancer were established in nude mice. Three weeks after intraperitoneal injection of the cancer cells, either ICGm or ICG solution was injected through the tail vein. Forty-eight hours after the administration of photosensitizer, in vivo and ex vivo imaging were performed. For PDT, 48 hours after the administration, other mice were irradiated through the abdominal wall, and the body weight and survival rate were monitored. In vivo imaging revealed that peritoneal tumors were visualized through the abdominal wall in ICGm-treated mice, whereas only non-specific fluorescence was observed in ICG-treated mice. PDT reduced the total weight of the disseminated nodules and significantly improved weight loss and survival rate in ICGm-treated mice. In conclusion, ICGm can be used as a novel diagnostic and therapeutic nano-device in peritoneal dissemination of gastric cancer.
