Near-infrared fluorescence imaging

Near-infrared fluorescence imaging is a real-time, noninvasive imaging modality that utilizes near-infrared (NIR) light and specialized fluorescent dyes to penetrate biological tissues and visualize physiological and pathological processes with high resolution and low background signal. NIR imaging is widely used in research and clinical settings for mapping lymphatic and blood flow, guiding cancer and cardiovascular surgeries, and monitoring immune responses. The technique relies on administration of exogenous NIR fluorophores (e.g., indocyanine green) that are excited by NIR light and emit fluorescence, which is detected by specialized imaging systems. This technology offers advantages such as deep tissue penetration, low tissue autofluorescence, and real-time high-contrast visualization of target structures or cellular activities, but it is not a molecular target itself[1][3][7].

Other names

Near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imagingNIR fluorescence imagingNIR-II imagingNear-infrared bioimaging

Not applicable (fluorescent dyes act as contrast agents, not as drugs targeting specific molecules)