PET Molecular Targets and Near-Infrared Fluorescence Imaging of Atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Imaging
• Molecular Imaging
• Biomedical Optics

Background:

• Atherosclerosis detection relies on imaging modalities to identify vulnerable plaques.
• Current methods like 18F-FDG PET have limitations in specificity for vascular inflammation.
• Emerging imaging techniques aim to provide more precise characterization of atherosclerotic plaques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current role of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) in atherosclerosis detection.
• To summarize the applications of Near-Infrared Fluorescence (NIRF) imaging in identifying atherosclerosis.
• To highlight advancements in imaging tracers and probes for enhanced plaque characterization.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on PET and NIRF imaging in atherosclerosis research.
• Analysis of novel radiotracers for PET targeting vascular inflammation and plaque features.
• Evaluation of advanced NIRF probes designed for early atherosclerosis detection and plaque erosion.
• Discussion of integrated imaging systems like NIRF/OCT for intravascular applications.

Main Results:

• 18F-FDG PET is established for macrophage activity but lacks specificity.
• Newer PET radiotracers offer improved specificity for vascular inflammation, microcalcification, and neovascularization.
• Novel NIRF probes target endothelial damage and oxidized LDL (oxLDL) for early plaque detection.
• Integrated NIRF/OCT systems can detect stent-associated microthrombi.
• Intravascular NIRF shows potential for detecting stent-induced vascular injury.

Conclusions:

• Novel radiotracers are enhancing the specificity of PET for atherosclerosis imaging.
• Advanced NIRF probes demonstrate significant promise for future clinical translation in humans.
• Intravascular NIRF imaging is poised to play a key role in detecting stent-related vascular complications.