Abstract PS3-04-18: Ai-enhanced imaging of quantum dot-encoded fluorescent magnetic nanoparticles enables sensitive and multiplexed detection of circulating tumor cells in breast cancer

Abstract Background: Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are valuable biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and therapeutic monitoring in breast cancer. However, their rarity and the need for multiplexed marker detection present significant technical challenges. We introduce a novel platform combining quantum dot-based fluorescent magnetic nanoparticles (MyQuVigen) with AI-enhanced imaging to achieve sensitive, multiplexed CTC isolation and detection using standard fluorescence microscopy Methods: NVIGEN’s MyQuVigen fluorescent magnetic nanoparticles are conjugated with antibodies targeting epithelial tumor markers (e.g., EpCAM, HER2, PD-L1, VEGF, EGFR), enabling efficient magnetic capture of CTCs from whole blood. The nanoparticles incorporate semiconductor quantum dots as fluorescent reporters, offering key advantages: broad excitation with narrow, tunable emissions for true multiplexing, high photostability, low autofluorescence background, and enhanced signal-to-noise ratio. An AI-powered image correction algorithm was developed to process images captured from standard color CCD cameras, improving contrast and signal clarity without requiring specialized multispectral equipment. Results: Using spiked breast cancer cell lines, the platform demonstrated >90% CTC recovery efficiency and successful multiplexed visualization of 3-5 protein markers per cell. AI image correction improved signal-to-noise ratio by 2-10×, enabling clear detection of low-abundance markers with simplified imaging systems. The workflow is compatible with widely available fluorescence microscopes, making it suitable for both research and translational applications. Conclusions: This integrated approach leveraging quantum dot fluorescence, magnetic nanoparticle-based CTC capture, and AI-enhanced imaging offers a powerful, scalable solution for sensitive and multiplexed CTC analysis in breast cancer. The technology’s simplicity, sensitivity, and adaptability make it well-positioned for broader use in biomarker-driven oncology research and diagnostics. Citation Format: A. Fu, K. Wang, H. Jin, W. Gu. Ai-enhanced imaging of quantum dot-encoded fluorescent magnetic nanoparticles enables sensitive and multiplexed detection of circulating tumor cells in breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2025; 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS3-04-18.