| abstract |
Methods and compositions involving enzyme-activatable fluorophore polymer imaging agents for photodetection of specific tissues and/or human diseases and disorders are provided. In certain embodiments, the imaging agent comprises a hydrophilic polymer backbone (e.g., poly(L)lysine), a hydrophobic fluorophore, and a hydrophilic solubilizing agent. The solubilizing agent may comprise a quarternary ammonium group (e.g., a 1-methylnicotinic group) to enhance self-quenching of the fluorophore. Various methods for the generation and purification of imaging agents are also provided, including methods involving solid phase probe extraction or ion exchange purification. |