In cooperation with the National Cancer Institute, studies are being conducted on the optical properties of different nanoparticles in various media after the modification of surface coatings; photoluminescent and plasmonic gold nanoparticles are synthesized, and the spectral features, stability, photostability, spatial parameters and nanoparticle size distribution are measured. After the application of physical methods for the characterization of nanoparticles, the accumulation dynamics of nanoparticles in cancerous cell lines, their uptake mechanisms and cytotoxic effects are studied. The nanoparticles are tested as possible contrast agents for X-rays, their pharmacokinetic properties are accessed. Aiming to make a bifunctional radioactive-fluorescent marker, a metastable technetium 99mTc is attached to the photoluminescent gold nanoparticles, and the optical properties, stability and distribution of the complex are investigated in experimental animals. The radiological studies are also performed with 99mTc -conjugated magnetic nanoparticles and Gd3+-doped NaYF4 upconvertion nanoparticles.
Another research direction comprises spectroscopic studies of tetrapyrrolic photosensitizers, their photochemical transformations in model biologic media and in the presence of antioxidants. In cooperation with the State Research Institute Centre for Innovative Medicine, research is being carried out on the applicability of endogenous porphyrins for optical diagnostics and phototherapy of rheumatoid arthritis.
