In vivo MRI cell tracking: clinical studies

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Radiology
• Cellular Therapy

Background:

• Superparamagnetic iron oxides (SPIOs) enable cell tracking via Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
• Cellular therapies, particularly stem cell therapies, are advancing towards clinical application.
• Accurate cell delivery is crucial for the efficacy of cell-based treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the fundamental principles of MRI-based cell tracking utilizing SPIOs.
• To review and describe four distinct clinical trials employing this technology.
• To assess the current and future role of MRI cell tracking in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Principles of MRI signal generation and contrast enhancement by SPIOs.
• Methodologies for SPIO labeling of cells for tracking.
• Review of clinical trial designs and outcomes for MRI cell tracking studies.

Main Results:

• MRI cell tracking with SPIOs provides visualization of cell distribution.
• Four clinical trials have been successfully conducted, demonstrating feasibility.
• The technique is applicable to various cell types and therapeutic areas.

Conclusions:

• Clinical MRI cell tracking is expected to be integral to mainstream cell therapy.
• Primary utility lies in verifying accurate cell delivery, especially with MRI-guided injections.
• Interventional radiologists will play a key role; current studies are international.