Figure 20.

Schematic illustration of the synthesis of RGD-f-PNPs/EPI and its targeted EPI delivery into EC cells. (A) The RGD-f-PNPs were first synthesized by co-assembly Zn2+ ions and cyclo[-(d-Ala-l-Glu-d-Ala-l-Trp)2-] peptides, and then modified with RGD peptide moieties onto the surface of f-PNPs. The EPI was loaded with RGD-f-PNPs through π-π stacking and electrostatic interactions. (B) The EPI-loaded RGD-f-PNPs can be used for targeted imaging and destruction of EC cells due to their capability of active targeting and enhanced penetration. (C) NIR fluorescence imaging of EC-bearing nude mice after tail vein injection of saline, EPI alone, RGD-f-PNPs, and RGD-f-PNPs/EPI. Reproduced from [201], with permission. Copyright: 2018 Spring Nature.