Design, Synthesis and Biomedical Applications of 18F Nanoprobes: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

18F-labeled nanoprobes represent a significant advancement in molecular imaging, integrating the high sensitivity and quantitative capabilities of positron emission tomography (PET) with the versatility of nanotechnology. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the design strategies and diverse applications of 18F nanoprobes. Initially, we examine the synthesis approaches, including direct 18F radiolabeling of nanoparticles, nano-encapsulation of 18F tracers, and nanoscale self-assembly of 18F tracers, all tailored to enhance biocompatibility, targeting specificity, and imaging clarity. Subsequently, we systematically explore the in vivo behavior of 18F nanoprobes, focusing on key influencing factors such as functional precursors, physicochemical properties and surface chemistry. Furthermore, the applications of 18F nanoprobes in multimodal imaging, including PET/MR, PET/CT, and PET/MR/UCL imaging are discussed, particularly for tumor detection, therapeutic response monitoring, pharmacokinetics and biodistribution assessment in living subjects. Finally, the challenges and future perspectives of nanoprobes are addressed, highlighting their potential for utility in both clinical and research settings. This review anticipates the pivotal role of 18F nanoprobes in advancing personalized medicine, offering precise diagnostics and paving the way for next-generation targeted theranostic platforms. Detailed studies on the mechanisms of 18F nanoprobes, with an emphasis on clinical translation and potential benefits, are expected to further propel this promising field. This article is categorized under: Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices.