Aliphatic polyesters for medical imaging and theranostic applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Medical Imaging
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Medical imaging is crucial for modern healthcare.
• Innovative imaging systems combining biomaterials and contrast agents (CAs)/imaging probes (IPs) are key for diagnostics and theranostics.
• Aliphatic polyesters such as poly(lactide) (PLA), poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA), and poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) are widely used in medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a state-of-the-art review of polyester-based imaging systems.
• To discuss various medical imaging modalities.
• To explore strategies for integrating contrast agents/imaging probes with polyesters.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on polyester-based imaging systems.
• Description of imaging modalities: MRI, optical imaging, CT, US, SPECT, PET.
• Discussion of two main integration strategies: encapsulation and chemical modification.

Main Results:

• Polyester-based imaging systems offer versatile platforms for medical applications.
• Encapsulation strategies involve nanoparticles, micelles, dendrimers, and capsules.
• Chemical modification strategies focus on polyester backbones and surfaces to create macromolecular imaging agents.

Conclusions:

• Polyester-based imaging systems are promising for cell labeling, diagnostics, and theranostics.
• These systems enhance the capabilities of medical devices.
• Further research in this area will drive advancements in personalized medicine.