abstract |
Cobalamins of formula (I) that comprise a fluorescent, phosphorescent, luminescent or light-producing compound covalently linked to cobalamin are disclosed, wherein the substituents for the variables shown in formula (I) are as defined in the specification. These cobalamins can be used as diagnostic and prognostic markers (a) to distinguish cancer cells and tissues from healthy cells and tissues, including identifying lymph nodes containing cancer cells, and (b) to determine if an individual will respond positively to chemotherapy using cobalamin-therapeutic bioconjugates. |