Nanoparticle Imaging of Vascular Inflammation and Remodeling in Atherosclerotic Disease

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe purpose of this review is to highlight some of the recent developments (within the last 5  years) in imaging atherosclerotic plaques using nanoparticles, with a focus on technologies that have been applied to in vivo models of disease.Recent FindingsStructural and cellular components of atherosclerotic plaques are being imaged with greater definition and improved sensitivity. This is a result of both molecular targeting of nanoparticles to disease-relevant biomarkers through the use of nanoparticles of different shapes and sizes and tailoring pharmacokinetic parameters that allow for enhanced pharmacodynamic effects.SummaryCurrently, there are no atherosclerotic plaque imaging techniques clinically validated to predict future clinical events. Considering the rapid pace of new nanomaterial discovery and development, along with the development of multimodality imaging systems, this goal seems within reach. These advancements are “nano” in name only.
Source: Current Cardiovascular Imaging Reports - Category: Radiology Source Type: research