scholarly journals Molecular imaging perspectives

2005 ◽  
Vol 2 (3) ◽  
pp. 133-144 ◽  
Author(s):  
Paul J Cassidy ◽  
George K Radda
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Imaging ◽  
Contrast Agents ◽  
Physical Science ◽  
Life Science ◽  
Interdisciplinary Collaboration ◽  
Nuclear Imaging ◽  
Imaging Modalities ◽  
Molecular Events ◽  
Biological Target

Molecular imaging is an emerging technology at the life science/physical science interface which is set to revolutionize our understanding and treatment of disease. The tools of molecular imaging are the imaging modalities and their corresponding contrast agents. These facilitate interaction with a biological target at a molecular level in a number of ways. The diverse nature of molecular imaging requires knowledge from both the life and physical sciences for its successful development and implementation. The aim of this review is to introduce the subject of molecular imaging from both life science and physical science perspectives. However, we will restrict our coverage to the prominent in vivo molecular imaging modalities of magnetic resonance imaging, optical imaging and nuclear imaging. The physical basis of these imaging modalities, the use of contrast agents and the imaging parameters of sensitivity, temporal resolution and spatial resolution are described. Then, the specificity of contrast agents for targeting and sensing molecular events, and some applications of molecular imaging in biology and medicine are given. Finally, the diverse nature of molecular imaging and its reliance on interdisciplinary collaboration is discussed.

Cardiovascular Molecular Imaging

2015 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alan R. Morrison ◽  
Joseph C. Wu ◽  
Mehran M. Sadeghi
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Imaging ◽  
Photoacoustic Imaging ◽  
Nuclear Imaging ◽  
Biological Information ◽  
Novel Approach ◽  
Novel Therapeutic Strategies ◽  
Pathologic Processes ◽  
Cardiovascular Molecular Imaging ◽  
Accurate Quantification

Cardiovascular molecular imaging is a relatively young but rapidly expanding discipline that consists of a biologically-targeted approach to the assessment of physiologic and pathologic processes in vivo. This novel approach to imaging involves the integration of multiple disciplines such as cell and molecular biology, chemistry, and imaging sciences. The ultimate goal is quantitative assessment of cardiovascular processes at the cellular and molecular level, moving beyond traditional diagnostic information, in order to guide individually tailored therapy. In fact, it is likely that specific approaches to molecular imaging will be developed in tandem with the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Recent advances in probe development and imaging systems have contributed to evolution of molecular imaging toward clinical translational. These include technological progress in traditional imaging platforms; along with the emergence of newer imaging modalities such as photoacoustic imaging. In addition, hybrid imaging (e.g. nuclear imaging with CT or MRI) has the potential for improved spatial localization, and more accurate quantification by coupling anatomic and biological information. In addition to potential clinical applications that address existing diagnostic gaps in cardiovascular medicine, molecular imaging allows for unique approaches to studying pathophysiology. This chapter is intended to provide an overview of the state of the art in cardiovascular molecular imaging, highlighting how it may improve the management of major cardiovascular diseases.

scholarly journals In Vitro Evaluation of Radiolabeled Amphotericin B for Molecular Imaging of Mold Infections

2020 ◽  
Vol 64 (7) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lukas Page ◽  
Andrew J. Ullmann ◽  
Fabian Schadt ◽  
Sebastian Wurster ◽  
Samuel Samnick
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Imaging ◽  
Amphotericin B ◽  
Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis ◽  
Nuclear Imaging ◽  
Molecular Probes ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Diagnostic Potential ◽  
Gallium 68

ABSTRACT Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis and mucormycosis are life-threatening complications in immunocompromised patients. A rapid diagnosis followed by early antifungal treatment is essential for patient survival. Given the limited spectrum of biomarkers for invasive mold infections, recent studies have proposed the use of radiolabeled siderophores or antibodies as molecular probes to increase the specificity of radiological findings by nuclear imaging modalities. While holding enormous diagnostic potential, most of the currently available molecular probes are tailored to the detection of Aspergillus species, and their cost-intensive and sophisticated implementation restricts their accessibility at less specialized centers. In order to develop cost-efficient and broadly applicable tracers for pulmonary mold infections, this study established streamlined and high-yielding protocols to radiolabel amphotericin B (AMB) with the gamma emitter technetium-99m (99mTc-AMB) and the positron emitter gallium-68 (68Ga-AMB). The radiochemical purity of the resulting tracers consistently exceeded 99%, and both probes displayed excellent stability in human serum (>98% after 60 to 240 min at 37°C). The uptake kinetics by representative mold pathogens were assessed in an in vitro Transwell assay using infected endothelial cell layers. Both tracers accumulated intensively and specifically in Transwell inserts infected with Aspergillus fumigatus, Rhizopus arrhizus, and other clinically relevant mold pathogens compared with their accumulation in uninfected inserts and inserts infected with bacterial controls. Inoculum-dependent enrichment was confirmed by gamma counting and autoradiographic imaging. Taken together, this pilot in vitro study proposes 99mTc-AMB and 68Ga-AMB to be facile, stable, and specific probes, meriting further preclinical in vivo evaluation of radiolabeled amphotericin B for molecular imaging in invasive mycoses.

DEVELOPMENT OF NEEDLE-BASED MICROENDOSCOPY FOR FLUORESCENCE MOLECULAR IMAGING OF BREAST TUMOR MODELS

2009 ◽  
Vol 02 (04) ◽  
pp. 343-352
Author(s):  
CHAO-WEI CHEN ◽  
TIFFANY R. BLACKWELL ◽  
RENEE NAPHAS ◽  
PAUL T. WINNARD ◽  
VENU RAMAN ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Molecular Imaging ◽  
Contrast Agents ◽  
Breast Biopsy ◽  
Fluorescent Imaging ◽  
Model Systems ◽  
Breast Cancers ◽  
Imaging Device ◽  
Fluorescence Molecular Imaging

Fluorescence molecular imaging enables the visualization of basic molecular processes such as gene expression, enzyme activity, and disease-specific molecular interactions in vivo using targeted contrast agents, and therefore, is being developed for early detection and in situ characterization of breast cancers. Recent advances in developing near-infrared fluorescent imaging contrast agents have enabled the specific labeling of human breast cancer cells in mouse model systems. In synergy with contrast agent development, this paper describes a needle-based fluorescence molecular imaging device that has the strong potential to be translated into clinical breast biopsy procedures. This microendoscopy probe is based on a gradient-index (GRIN) lens interfaced with a laser scanning microscope. Specifications of the imaging performance, including the field-of-view, transverse resolution, and focus tracking characteristics were calibrated. Orthotopic MDA-MB-231 breast cancer xenografts stably expressing the tdTomato red fluorescent protein (RFP) were used to detect the tumor cells in this tumor model as a proof of principle study. With further development, this technology, in conjunction with the development of clinically applicable, injectable fluorescent molecular imaging agents, promises to perform fluorescence molecular imaging of breast cancers in vivo for breast biopsy guidance.

scholarly journals Minireview: Nanoparticles for Molecular Imaging—An Overview

Endocrinology ◽  
2010 ◽  
Vol 151 (2) ◽  
pp. 474-481 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rodney F. Minchin ◽  
Darren J. Martin
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Imaging ◽  
Human Disease ◽  
Disease Diagnosis ◽  
Imaging Modalities ◽  
Biological Processes ◽  
Physiological Changes ◽  
Field Of Study ◽  
Imaging Probes ◽  
Experimental Stage

Molecular imaging is a technique for quantifying physiological changes in vivo using imaging probes, or beacons, which can be detected noninvasively. This field of study has advanced rapidly in recent years, in part due to the application of nanotechnology. The versatility of different imaging modalities has been significantly enhanced by innovative nanoparticle development. These nanoprobes can be used to image specific cells and tissues within a whole organism. Some of the nanoparticles under development may be useful to measure biological processes associated with human disease and help monitor how these change with treatment. This review highlights some of the recent advances in nanoparticles for molecular imaging. It also addresses issues that arise with the use of nanoparticles. Whereas much of the technology remains at an experimental stage, the potential for enhancing disease diagnosis and treatment is considerable.

scholarly journals Nanobodies as Versatile Tool for Multiscale Imaging Modalities

Biomolecules ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (12) ◽  
pp. 1695
Author(s):  
Marco Erreni ◽  
Tilo Schorn ◽  
Francesca D’Autilia ◽  
Andrea Doni
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Imaging ◽  
Super Resolution ◽  
Imaging Modalities ◽  
Molecular Imaging Probes ◽  
Imaging Probes ◽  
Versatile Tool ◽  
And Function ◽  
Preclinical And Clinical Studies

Molecular imaging is constantly growing in different areas of preclinical biomedical research. Several imaging methods have been developed and are continuously updated for both in vivo and in vitro applications, in order to increase the information about the structure, localization and function of molecules involved in physiology and disease. Along with these progresses, there is a continuous need for improving labeling strategies. In the last decades, the single domain antigen-binding fragments nanobodies (Nbs) emerged as important molecular imaging probes. Indeed, their small size (~15 kDa), high stability, affinity and modularity represent desirable features for imaging applications, providing higher tissue penetration, rapid targeting, increased spatial resolution and fast clearance. Accordingly, several Nb-based probes have been generated and applied to a variety of imaging modalities, ranging from in vivo and in vitro preclinical imaging to super-resolution microscopy. In this review, we will provide an overview of the state-of-the-art regarding the use of Nbs in several imaging modalities, underlining their extreme versatility and their enormous potential in targeting molecules and cells of interest in both preclinical and clinical studies.

Non-Invasive Approaches to Visualize the Endothelin Axis In Vivo Using State-of-the-Art Molecular Imaging Modalities

2009 ◽  
Vol 9 (14) ◽  
pp. 1580-1595 ◽  
Author(s):  
C. Holtke ◽  
A. Faust ◽  
H-J. Breyholz ◽  
K. Kopka ◽  
O. Schober ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Imaging ◽  
State Of The Art ◽  
Imaging Modalities ◽  
Non Invasive

New Technologies and Directed Agents for Applications of Cancer Imaging

2006 ◽  
Vol 24 (20) ◽  
pp. 3299-3308 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mostafa Atri
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Imaging ◽  
Contrast Agents ◽  
Target Genes ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
Response To Treatment ◽  
Imaging Biomarkers ◽  
Molecular Events ◽  
Positron Emission ◽  
Targeted Contrast Agents ◽  
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Mri

Molecular imaging represents tissue-specific imaging and quantification of physiologic (functional) and molecular events in tumors utilizing new noninvasive imaging modalities, radioligands, and contrast agents. It combines anatomic, physiologic, and metabolic information in a single imaging session. Molecular imaging relies on the ability to target genes and proteins that are linked directly or indirectly to human disease. New imaging biomarkers are being developed. In addition, functional and molecular imaging can potentially replace anatomic longitudinal studies by assessing treatment response earlier. Vascular targeting agents can be evaluated by imaging of tumor angiogenesis using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography and ultrasound, and positron emission tomography (PET). Targeted contrast agents can accomplish site-directed imaging or therapy by a variety of active and passive mechanisms. Furthermore, there is the possibility of combining different modalities such as ultrasonic imaging and MRI or MRI and PET to increase the flexibility unachievable with either modality alone. However, there is a need to standardize these techniques so that longitudinal evaluation of tumor response to treatment is feasible.

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