Cardiac molecular imaging

Molecular imaging enables the visualization and interrogation of specific biologic targets and pathways that precede or underlie changes in morphology, physiology, and function of the heart. Accordingly, it aims at identifying precursors or early stages of cardiac disease, and it may facilitate monitoring and guidance of novel, increasingly specific and versatile cardiovascular therapies. Although SPECT and PET imaging of myocardial metabolism and autonomic innervation are already embedded in clinical practice, various additional targets, probes, and techniques are under development. These techniques hold promise to become a future key in personalizing cardiovascular care.