Abstract: Presented herein are methods of using encapsulated J-aggregates of indocyanine green (ICG) as a ratiometric sensor of biological activity. Upon interaction with a biological phenomenon of interest, the encapsulated J-aggregates can be released and dissolved upon rupture, inducing a detectable hypsochromic shift in the absorption spectra and corresponding increase in fluorescence. Various imaging techniques can be employed to visualize this sensor including photoacoustic imaging, two-photon imaging, fluorescence imaging, near infrared imaging, and a variety of other optical or optics-based techniques. Additionally, if the J-aggregates of ICG are also encapsulated with drugs or therapeutic molecules, the ratiometric sensing using ICG can be used to confirm drug release and delivery.

Abstract: Novel recognitive hydrogels and sensors are provided, as well as methods of fabricating and using such hydrogels and sensors. Such recognitive hydrogels may comprise a molecularly imprinted polymer having a binding cavity specific for a triggering molecule and a conductive polymer associated with the molecularly imprinted polymer. Such sensors may comprise the recognitive hydrogels and an impedance sensing component. Such methods may comprise providing a triggering molecule, providing a sensor comprising a molecularly imprinted polymer having a binding cavity specific for the triggering molecule, a conductive polymer associated with the molecularly imprinted polymer, and an impedance sensing component, introducing the triggering molecule into the sensor, and detecting a change in impedance of the recognitive hydrogel with the impedance sensing component.

Abstract: Novel recognitive hydrogels and sensors are provided, as well as methods of fabricating and using such hydrogels and sensors. Such recognitive hydrogels may comprise a molecularly imprinted polymer having a binding cavity specific for a triggering molecule and a conductive polymer associated with the molecularly imprinted polymer. Such sensors may comprise the recognitive hydrogels and an impedance sensing component. Such methods may comprise providing a triggering molecule, providing a sensor comprising a molecularly imprinted polymer having a binding cavity specific for the triggering molecule, a conductive polymer associated with the molecularly imprinted polymer, and an impedance sensing component, introducing the triggering molecule into the sensor, and detecting a change in impedance of the recognitive hydrogel with the impedance sensing component.