Methods, compositions and kits for imaging cells and tissues using nanoparticles and spatial frequency heterodyne imaging

A method of identifying in a model system a potential therapeutic agent for treating or preventing a disease condition, the method comprising:

• contacting a first sample and a second sample of cells or tissue having the disease condition with a composition including:
• a nanoparticle and at least one of a polymer layer coating the nanoparticle and a binding agent that specifically binds the disease agent;
• contacting the second sample with the potential therapeutic agent;
• and,
• measuring a presence or an amount of a marker in the first sample and the second sample, wherein the marker is characteristic of the disease condition, wherein a greater amount of the marker in the first sample compared to that in the second sample is a measure of treatment and protection by the potential therapeutic agent, thereby identifying the potential therapeutic agent for treating or preventing the disease condition.

A kit for imaging cells or a tissue in a subject comprising:

• a composition comprising a nanoparticle including at least one selected from the group of:
• a polymer layer and a binding agent, wherein the composition binds to and/or is phagocytosed by the cells or the tissue;
• instructions for use, wherein the instructions describe:
• contacting the cells or the tissue with the composition, and imaging the cells and the tissue and detecting X-ray scattering of the composition with a device;
• and a container.