In Vivo Molecular Imaging.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Radiochemistry
• Optical Physics

Background:

• In vivo molecular imaging visualizes biological processes at molecular and cellular levels.
• High-sensitivity methods include nuclear medical imaging (PET/SPECT) and optical molecular imaging.
• Development of targeted probes is crucial for accurate disease detection and monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the development of imaging probes for nuclear medical and optical molecular imaging.
• To highlight advancements in probe design for specific disease targets.
• To discuss the integration of molecular imaging with therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Development of radiolabeled probes based on structure-activity-biodistribution relationships and multifunctional probe concepts.
• Design of tumor-specific optical imaging probes, including near-infrared (NIR) and activatable probes.
• Creation of photoacoustic imaging probes for deep tissue visualization.

Main Results:

• Successfully developed radiolabeled probes for detecting neuroreceptors, amyloid plaques, tau aggregates, tumors, and more.
• Designed novel optical probes with specific imaging mechanisms for enhanced tumor visualization.
• Advanced photoacoustic probes offer high sensitivity and resolution in deep tissues.

Conclusions:

• Molecular imaging probes have significantly advanced for both nuclear and optical techniques.
• These probes show great promise for early disease detection, diagnosis, and theranostics.
• Continued innovation in probe design will further enhance in vivo molecular imaging capabilities.