Molecular imaging of atherosclerosis with nanoparticle-based fluorinated MRI contrast agents

Nanomedicine (Lond). 2015;10(11):1817-32. doi: 10.2217/nnm.15.26.

Abstract

As atherosclerosis remains one of the most prevalent causes of patient mortality, the ability to diagnose early signs of plaque rupture and thrombosis represents a significant clinical need. With recent advances in nanotechnology, it is now possible to image specific molecular processes noninvasively with MRI, using various types of nanoparticles as contrast agents. In the context of cardiovascular disease, it is possible to specifically deliver contrast agents to an epitope of interest for detecting vascular inflammatory processes, which serve as predecessors to atherosclerotic plaque development. Herein, we review various applications of nanotechnology in detecting atherosclerosis using MRI, with an emphasis on perfluorocarbon nanoparticles and fluorine imaging, along with theranostic prospects of nanotechnology in cardiovascular disease.

Keywords: atherosclerosis; contrast agent; inflammation; theranostics; thrombosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atherosclerosis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Atherosclerosis / pathology
  • Contrast Media / chemistry
  • Contrast Media / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Molecular Imaging / methods
  • Nanoparticles / therapeutic use*
  • Plaque, Atherosclerotic / diagnostic imaging*
  • Plaque, Atherosclerotic / pathology
  • Radiography

Substances

  • Contrast Media