Near infrared fluorescent contrast agent useful for fluorescence imaging of tumour or in angiography

摘要

A near infrared fluorescent contrast agent comprising a sodium salt of the formula shown herein, and a method of fluorescence imaging comprising introducing the near infrared fluorescent contrast agent of the described formula into a living body, exposing the body to an excitation light, and detecting near infrared fluorescence from the contrast agent is disclosed. The near infrared fluorescent contrast agent of the described formula is excited by an excitation light and emits near infrared fluorescence. This infrared fluorescence is superior in transmission through biological tissues. Thus, detection of lesions in the deep part of a living body has been made possible. In addition, this infrared fluorescent contrast agent is superior in water solubility and low toxic, and therefore, it can be used safely for tumour imaging and for angiography.