<i>Quo Vadis</i>, Nanoparticle-Enabled <i>In Vivo</i> Fluorescence Imaging?
Erving Ximendes, Antonio Benayas, Daniel Jaque, Riccardo Marin
Abstract
imaging. However, luminescent NPs have thus far only reached a limited portion of their potential. Although we believe that the best is yet to come, the future might not be as bright as some of us think (and have hoped!). In particular, translation of NP-based fluorescence imaging from preclinical studies to clinics is not straightforward. In this Perspective, we provide a critical assessment and highlight promising research avenues based on the latest advances in the fields of luminescent NPs and imaging technologies. The disillusioned outlook we proffer herein might sound pessimistic at first, but we consider it necessary to avoid pursuing "pipe dreams" and redirect the efforts toward achievable-yet ambitious-goals.