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Yang E, Liu Q, Huang G, Liu J, Wei W. Engineering nanobodies for next-generation molecular imaging. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:1622-1638. [PMID: 35331925 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, nanobodies have emerged as ideal imaging agents for molecular imaging. Molecular nanobody imaging combines the specificity of nanobodies with the sensitivity of state-of-the-art molecular imaging modalities, such as positron emission tomography (PET). Given that modifications of nanobodies alter their pharmacokinetics (PK), the engineering strategies that combine nanobodies with radionuclides determine the effectiveness, reliability, and safety of the molecular imaging probes. In this review, we introduce conjugation strategies that have been applied to nanobodies, including random conjugation, 99mTc tricarbonyl chemistry, sortase A-mediated site-specific conjugation, maleimide-cysteine chemistry, and click chemistries. We also summarize the latest advances in nanobody tracers, emphasizing their preclinical and clinical use. In addition, we elaborate on nanobody-based near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging and image-guided surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erpeng Yang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200217, China
| | - Qiufang Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Gang Huang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200217, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200217, China.
| | - Weijun Wei
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Institute of Clinical Nuclear Medicine, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200217, China.
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VCAM-1 Target in Non-Invasive Imaging for the Detection of Atherosclerotic Plaques. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9110368. [PMID: 33138124 PMCID: PMC7692297 DOI: 10.3390/biology9110368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Cardiovascular diseases are the first cause of morbimortality worldwide. They are mainly caused by atherosclerosis, with progressive plaque formation in the arterial wall. In this context, several imaging techniques have been developed to screen, detect and quantify atherosclerosis. Early screening improves primary prevention and promotes the prescription of adequate medication before adverse clinical events. In this review, we focus on the imaging of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, an adhesion molecule involved in the first stages of the development of atherosclerosis. This molecule could therefore be a promising target to detect early atherosclerosis non-invasively. Potential clinical applications are critically discussed. Abstract Atherosclerosis is a progressive chronic arterial disease characterised by atheromatous plaque formation in the intima of the arterial wall. Several invasive and non-invasive imaging techniques have been developed to detect and characterise atherosclerosis in the vessel wall: anatomic/structural imaging, functional imaging and molecular imaging. In molecular imaging, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) is a promising target for the non-invasive detection of atherosclerosis and for the assessment of novel antiatherogenic treatments. VCAM-1 is an adhesion molecule expressed on the activated endothelial surface that binds leucocyte ligands and therefore promotes leucocyte adhesion and transendothelial migration. Hence, for several years, there has been an increase in molecular imaging methods for detecting VCAM-1 in MRI, PET, SPECT, optical imaging and ultrasound. The use of microparticles of iron oxide (MPIO), ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide (USPIO), microbubbles, echogenic immunoliposomes, peptides, nanobodies and other nanoparticles has been described. However, these approaches have been tested in animal models, and the remaining challenge is bench-to-bedside development and clinical applicability.
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3
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Peptide-based nanosystems for vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 targeting: a real opportunity for therapeutic and diagnostic agents in inflammation associated disorders. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2019.101461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Lee HJ, Ehlerding EB, Cai W. Antibody-Based Tracers for PET/SPECT Imaging of Chronic Inflammatory Diseases. Chembiochem 2019; 20:422-436. [PMID: 30240550 PMCID: PMC6377337 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201800429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory diseases are often progressive, resulting not only in physical damage to patients but also social and economic burdens, making early diagnosis of them critical. Nuclear medicine techniques can enhance the detection of inflammation by providing functional as well as anatomical information when combined with other modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography or ultrasonography. Although small molecules and peptides were mainly used for the treatment and imaging of chronic inflammatory diseases in the past, antibodies and their fragments have also been emerging for chronic inflammatory diseases as they show high specificity to their targets and can have various biological half-lives depending on how they are engineered. In addition, imaging with antibodies or their fragments can visualize the in vivo biodistribution of the probes or help monitor therapeutic responses, thereby providing physicians with a greater understanding of drug behavior in vivo and another means of monitoring their patients. In this review, we introduce various targets and radiolabeled antibody-based probes for the molecular imaging of chronic inflammatory diseases in preclinical and clinical studies. Targets can be classified into three different categories: 1) cell-adhesion molecules, 2) surface markers on immune cells, and 3) cytokines or enzymes. The limitations and future directions of using radiolabeled antibodies for imaging inflammatory diseases are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Jin Lee
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison WI 53705, USA
| | - Emily B. Ehlerding
- Medical Physics Department, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison WI 53705, USA
| | - Weibo Cai
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison WI 53705, USA
- Medical Physics Department, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison WI 53705, USA
- Department of Radiology and Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison WI 53705, USA
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5
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Wang X, Peter K. Molecular Imaging of Atherothrombotic Diseases: Seeing Is Believing. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2017; 37:1029-1040. [PMID: 28450298 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.116.306483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Molecular imaging, with major advances in the development of both innovative targeted contrast agents/particles and radiotracers, as well as various imaging technologies, is a fascinating, rapidly growing field with many preclinical and clinical applications, particularly for personalized medicine. Thrombosis in either the venous or the arterial system, the latter typically caused by rupture of unstable atherosclerotic plaques, is a major determinant of mortality and morbidity in patients. However, imaging of the various thrombotic complications and the identification of plaques that are prone to rupture are at best indirect, mostly unreliable, or not available at all. The development of molecular imaging toward diagnosis and prevention of thrombotic disease holds promise for major advance in this clinically important field. Here, we review the medical need and clinical importance of direct molecular imaging of thrombi and unstable atherosclerotic plaques that are prone to rupture, thereby causing thrombotic complications such as myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. We systematically compare the advantages/disadvantages of the various molecular imaging modalities, including X-ray computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography, fluorescence imaging, and ultrasound. We further systematically discuss molecular targets specific for thrombi and those characterizing unstable, potentially thrombogenic atherosclerotic plaques. Finally, we provide examples for first theranostic approaches in thrombosis, combining diagnosis, targeted therapy, and monitoring of therapeutic success or failure. Overall, molecular imaging is a rapidly advancing field that holds promise of major benefits to many patients with atherothrombotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Wang
- From the Atherothrombosis and Vascular Biology Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute (X.W., K.P.), Departments of Medicine (X.W., K.P.), and Immunology (K.P.), Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karlheinz Peter
- From the Atherothrombosis and Vascular Biology Laboratory, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute (X.W., K.P.), Departments of Medicine (X.W., K.P.), and Immunology (K.P.), Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Kazuma SM, Sultan D, Zhao Y, Detering L, You M, Luehmann HP, Abdalla DSP, Liu Y. Recent Advances of Radionuclide-Based Molecular Imaging of Atherosclerosis. Curr Pharm Des 2016; 21:5267-76. [PMID: 26369676 DOI: 10.2174/1381612821666150915104529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/14/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a systemic disease characterized by the development of multifocal plaque lesions within vessel walls and extending into the vascular lumen. The disease takes decades to develop symptomatic lesions, affording opportunities for accurate detection of plaque progression, analysis of risk factors responsible for clinical events, and planning personalized treatment. Of the available molecular imaging modalities, radionuclidebased imaging strategies have been favored due to their sensitivity, quantitative detection and pathways for translational research. This review summarizes recent advances of radiolabeled small molecules, peptides, antibodies and nanoparticles for atherosclerotic plaque imaging during disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yongjian Liu
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States.
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William Strauss H. Atheroma and the inflammasome. J Nucl Cardiol 2015; 22:1187-90. [PMID: 25698483 DOI: 10.1007/s12350-015-0086-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H William Strauss
- Molecular Imaging and Therapy Service, Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, Room S113A, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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Kim H, Kee PH, Rim Y, Moody MR, Klegerman ME, Vela D, Huang SL, McPherson DD, Laing ST. Nitric Oxide-Enhanced Molecular Imaging of Atheroma using Vascular Cellular Adhesion Molecule 1-Targeted Echogenic Immunoliposomes. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2015; 41:1701-1710. [PMID: 25819469 PMCID: PMC4426087 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2015.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine whether pre-treatment with nitric oxide-loaded echogenic liposomes (NO-ELIP) plus ultrasound can improve highlighting by molecularly targeted (anti-vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 [VCAM-1]) ELIP of atheroma components. Atherosclerotic animals were treated with anti-VCAM-1-ELIP or immunoglobulin (IgG)-ELIP. Each group was selected at random to receive pre-treatment with standard ELIP plus ultrasound, NO-ELIP without ultrasound and NO-ELIP plus ultrasound. Intravascular ultrasound highlighting data for the same arterial segments were collected before and after treatment. Pre-treatment with NO-ELIP plus ultrasound resulted in a significant increase in acoustic enhancement by anti-VCAM-1-ELIP (21.3 ± 1.5% for gray-scale value, 53.9 ± 3.1% for radiofrequency data; p < 0.001 vs. IgG-ELIP, p < 0.05 vs. pre-treatment with standard ELIP plus ultrasound or NO-ELIP without ultrasound). NO-ELIP plus ultrasound can improve highlighting of atheroma by anti-VCAM-1 ELIP. This NO pre-treatment strategy may be useful in optimizing contrast agent delivery to the vascular wall for both diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunggun Kim
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Patrick H Kee
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yonghoon Rim
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Melanie R Moody
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Melvin E Klegerman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Deborah Vela
- Department of Pathology, Texas Heart Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shao-Ling Huang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - David D McPherson
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Susan T Laing
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.
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Radiotracers used for the scintigraphic detection of infection and inflammation. ScientificWorldJournal 2015; 2015:676719. [PMID: 25741532 PMCID: PMC4337049 DOI: 10.1155/2015/676719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last forty years, a small group of commercial radiopharmaceuticals have found their way into routine medical use, for the diagnostic imaging of patients with infection or inflammation. These molecular radiotracers usually participate in the immune response to an antigen, by tagging leukocytes or other molecules/cells that are endogenous to the process. Currently there is an advancing effort by researchers in the preclinical domain to design and develop new agents for this application. This review discusses radiopharmaceuticals used in the nuclear medicine clinic today, as well as those potential radiotracers that exploit an organism's defence mechanisms to an infectious or inflammatory event.
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Hong H, Chen F, Zhang Y, Cai W. New radiotracers for imaging of vascular targets in angiogenesis-related diseases. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2014; 76:2-20. [PMID: 25086372 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2014.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2014] [Revised: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Tremendous advances over the last several decades in positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) allow for targeted imaging of molecular and cellular events in the living systems. Angiogenesis, a multistep process regulated by the network of different angiogenic factors, has attracted world-wide interests, due to its pivotal role in the formation and progression of different diseases including cancer, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and inflammation. In this review article, we will summarize the recent progress in PET or SPECT imaging of a wide variety of vascular targets in three major angiogenesis-related diseases: cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammation. Faster drug development and patient stratification for a specific therapy will become possible with the facilitation of PET or SPECT imaging and it will be critical for the maximum benefit of patients.
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Bala G, Cosyns B. Recent Advances in Visualizing Vulnerable Plaque: Focus on Noninvasive Molecular Imaging. Curr Cardiol Rep 2014; 16:520. [DOI: 10.1007/s11886-014-0520-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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12
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Kee PH, Kim H, Huang S, Laing ST, Moody MR, Vela D, Klegerman ME, McPherson DD. Nitric oxide pretreatment enhances atheroma component highlighting in vivo with intercellular adhesion molecule-1-targeted echogenic liposomes. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2014; 40:1167-76. [PMID: 24613216 PMCID: PMC4011946 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2013.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Revised: 12/04/2013] [Accepted: 12/07/2013] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
We present an ultrasound technique for the detection of inflammatory changes in developing atheromas. We used contrast-enhanced ultrasound imaging with (i) microbubbles targeted to intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), a molecule of adhesion involved in inflammatory processes in lesions of atheromas in New Zealand White rabbits, and (ii) pretreatment with nitric oxide-loaded microbubbles and ultrasound activation at the site of the endothelium to enhance the permeability of the arterial wall and the penetration of ICAM-1-targeted microbubbles. This procedure increases acoustic enhancement 1.2-fold. Pretreatment with nitric oxide-loaded echogenic liposomes and ultrasound activation can potentially facilitate the subsequent penetration of targeted echogenic liposomes into the arterial wall, thus allowing improved detection of inflammatory changes in developing atheromas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick H Kee
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.
| | - Hyunggun Kim
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Shaoling Huang
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Susan T Laing
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Melanie R Moody
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Deborah Vela
- Cardiovascular Pathology, The Texas Heart Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Melvin E Klegerman
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - David D McPherson
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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Teresa Albelda M, Garcia-España E, Frias JC. Visualizing the atherosclerotic plaque: a chemical perspective. Chem Soc Rev 2014; 43:2858-76. [PMID: 24526041 DOI: 10.1039/c3cs60410a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is the major underlying pathologic cause of coronary artery disease. An early detection of the disease can prevent clinical sequellae such as angina, myocardial infarction, and stroke. The different imaging techniques employed to visualize the atherosclerotic plaque provide information of diagnostic and prognostic value. Furthermore, the use of contrast agents helps to improve signal-to-noise ratio providing better images. For nuclear imaging techniques and optical imaging these agents are absolutely necessary. We report on the different contrast agents that have been used, are used or may be used in future in animals, humans, or excised tissues for the distinct imaging modalities for atherosclerotic plaque imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ma Teresa Albelda
- Universidad de Valencia, Instituto de Ciencia Molecular, Edificio de Institutos de Paterna, c/ Catedrático José Beltrán 2, 46071 Valencia, Spain
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Wildgruber M, Swirski FK, Zernecke A. Molecular imaging of inflammation in atherosclerosis. Am J Cancer Res 2013; 3:865-84. [PMID: 24312156 PMCID: PMC3841337 DOI: 10.7150/thno.5771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2012] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute rupture of vulnerable plaques frequently leads to myocardial infarction and stroke. Within the last decades, several cellular and molecular players have been identified that promote atherosclerotic lesion formation, maturation and plaque rupture. It is now widely recognized that inflammation of the vessel wall and distinct leukocyte subsets are involved throughout all phases of atherosclerotic lesion development. The mechanisms that render a stable plaque unstable and prone to rupture, however, remain unknown and the identification of the vulnerable plaque remains a major challenge in cardiovascular medicine. Imaging technologies used in the clinic offer minimal information about the underlying biology and potential risk for rupture. New imaging technologies are therefore being developed, and in the preclinical setting have enabled new and dynamic insights into the vessel wall for a better understanding of this complex disease. Molecular imaging has the potential to track biological processes, such as the activity of cellular and molecular biomarkers in vivo and over time. Similarly, novel imaging technologies specifically detect effects of therapies that aim to stabilize vulnerable plaques and silence vascular inflammation. Here we will review the potential of established and new molecular imaging technologies in the setting of atherosclerosis, and discuss the cumbersome steps required for translating molecular imaging approaches into the clinic.
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Abstract
Endothelial cells represent important targets for therapeutic and diagnostic interventions in many cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological, inflammatory, and metabolic diseases. Targeted delivery of drugs (especially potent and labile biotherapeutics that require specific subcellular addressing) and imaging probes to endothelium holds promise to improve management of these maladies. In order to achieve this goal, drug cargoes or their carriers including liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles are chemically conjugated or fused using recombinant techniques with affinity ligands of endothelial surface molecules. Cell adhesion molecules, constitutively expressed on the endothelial surface and exposed on the surface of pathologically altered endothelium—selectins, VCAM-1, PECAM-1, and ICAM-1—represent good determinants for such a delivery. In particular, PECAM-1 and ICAM-1 meet criteria of accessibility, safety, and relevance to the (patho)physiological context of treatment of inflammation, ischemia, and thrombosis and offer a unique combination of targeting options including surface anchoring as well as intra- and transcellular targeting, modulated by parameters of the design of drug delivery system and local biological factors including flow and endothelial phenotype. This review includes analysis of these factors and examples of targeting selected classes of therapeutics showing promising results in animal studies, supporting translational potential of these interventions.
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Dimastromatteo J, Broisat A, Perret P, Ahmadi M, Boturyn D, Dumy P, Fagret D, Riou LM, Ghezzi C. In vivo molecular imaging of atherosclerotic lesions in ApoE-/- mice using VCAM-1-specific, 99mTc-labeled peptidic sequences. J Nucl Med 2013; 54:1442-9. [PMID: 23719858 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.112.115675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1) plays a major role in the chronic inflammatory processes involved in vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque development. We previously showed that the (99m)Tc-labeled major histocompatibility complex 1-derived peptide B2702p bound specifically to VCAM-1 and allowed the ex vivo imaging of atherosclerotic lesions in Watanabe heritable hyperlipidemic rabbits. However, B2702p target-to-background ratio was suboptimal for the in vivo imaging of VCAM-1 expression in atherosclerotic lesions. To improve the target-to-background ratio, 20 derivatives of B2702p (B2702p1-B2702p20) were synthesized using the alanine scan methodology. We hypothesized that (99m)Tc-radiolabeled B2702p derivatives might allow the molecular imaging of VCAM-1 expression in an experimental model of atherosclerosis. METHODS A mouse model of focal atherosclerotic plaque development induced by left carotid artery ligation in apolipoprotein E double-knockout (ApoE(-/-)) mice was used (n = 82). (99m)Tc-B2702p and (99m)Tc-B2702p1-(99m)Tc-B2702p20 were injected intravenously in anesthetized animals 3 wk after the ligation. Whole-body planar imaging was performed for 3 h. SPECT imaging of 6 additional ligated ApoE(-/-) mice was also performed with (99m)Tc-B2702p1. The animals were then euthanized, and the biodistribution of (99m)Tc-labeled peptides was evaluated by γ-well counting of excised organs. Expression of VCAM-1 in the ligated and contralateral carotid arteries was evaluated by immunohistology. RESULTS Robust VCAM-1 immunostaining was observed in the left carotid atherosclerotic lesions as a consequence of artery ligation, whereas no VCAM-1 expression was detected in the contralateral carotid artery. Among all evaluated peptides, (99m)Tc-B2702p1 exhibited the most favorable properties. By γ-well counting, there was a significant 2.0-fold increase in the (99m)Tc-B2702p1 left-to-right carotid artery activity ratio (2.6 ± 0.6) and a 3.4-fold increase in the left carotid-to-blood activity ratio (1.4 ± 0.4) in comparison to (99m)Tc-B2702p (1.3 ± 0.2 and 0.4 ± 0.1, respectively, P < 0.05 for both comparisons). Similarly, planar image quantification indicated a higher left-to-right carotid activity ratio in (99m)Tc-B2702p1- than in (99m)Tc-B2702p-injected mice (1.2 ± 0.1 vs. 1.0 ± 0.0, respectively, P < 0.05). Finally, a significantly higher (99m)Tc-B2702p1 activity in the left than in the right carotid artery was observed by SPECT imaging (2.2 ± 0.4 vs. 1.4 ± 0.3 cpm/mm(2)/injected dose, respectively, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION (99m)Tc-B2702p1 is a potentially useful radiotracer for the in vivo molecular imaging of VCAM-1 expression in atherosclerotic plaques.
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Autio A, Jalkanen S, Roivainen A. Nuclear imaging of inflammation: homing-associated molecules as targets. EJNMMI Res 2013; 3:1. [PMID: 23281702 PMCID: PMC3557172 DOI: 10.1186/2191-219x-3-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2012] [Accepted: 12/18/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The golden standard in nuclear medicine imaging of inflammation is the use of autologous radiolabeled leukocytes. Although their diagnostic accuracy is precise, the preparation of the leukocytes is both laborious and potentially hazardous for laboratory personnel. Molecules involved in leukocyte migration (homing-associated molecules) could serve as targets for the development of imaging agents for inflammation. An excellent target would be a molecule that is absent or expressed at low levels in healthy tissues, but is present or upregulated at the sites of inflammation. In this paper, we will review the literature concerning the use of homing-associated molecules as imaging targets. We will especially concentrate on vascular adhesion protein-1 due to the promising results regarding its use as a target for the imaging of inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Autio
- Turku PET Centre, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Kiinamyllynkatu 4-8, Turku, 20521, Finland.
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Nishigori K, Temma T, Yoda K, Onoe S, Kondo N, Shiomi M, Ono M, Saji H. Radioiodinated peptide probe for selective detection of oxidized low density lipoprotein in atherosclerotic plaques. Nucl Med Biol 2012; 40:97-103. [PMID: 23157986 DOI: 10.1016/j.nucmedbio.2012.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2012] [Revised: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the significant effort in developing radioprobes for atherosclerosis, few have low molecular weight. Oxidized LDL (OxLDL), a highly proinflammatory and proatherogenic factor that is abundant in atherosclerotic plaques, plays a pivotal role in plaque destabilization, which makes OxLDL a relevant probe target. We developed a radioiodinated short peptide, AHP7, as a low molecular weight probe for specific OxLDL imaging and evaluated its utility using myocardial infarction-prone Watanabe heritable hyperlipidemic rabbits (WHHLMI). METHODS [¹²⁵I]AHP7 was designed and synthesized based on the sequence of Asp-hemolysin, an OxLDL binding protein extracted from Aspergillus fumigatus. In vitro binding studies with OxLDL having varying degrees of oxidation were performed. Radioactivity accumulation in the aorta was measured 30 min post-administration in rabbits. Autoradiography and histological studies were performed using serial aorta sections. A radioiodinated scrambled peptide ([¹²⁵I]AHP scramble) was used as a negative control. RESULTS [¹²⁵I]AHP7 bound to OxLDL in proportion to the degree of oxidation (R=0.91, P<0.0001) and was inhibited by unlabeled AHP7 in a concentration-dependent manner. The aorta accumulation level and aorta/blood and aorta/muscle ratios of [¹²⁵I]AHP7 in WHHLMI were 2.8-, 1.3- and 1.8-fold higher, respectively, than those in control rabbits (P<0.001). Co-administration of AHP7 significantly reduced [¹²⁵I]AHP7 radioactivity in aorta sections (P<0.0001). Regional radioactivity levels in the aorta sections showed nonuniformity but similarity to the immunohistochemical OxLDL density. CONCLUSIONS The potential of radioiodinated AHP7 for selectively imaging OxLDL was demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kantaro Nishigori
- Department of Patho-Functional Bioanalysis, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, 46-29 Yoshida Shimoadachi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
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Michalska M, Machtoub L, Manthey HD, Bauer E, Herold V, Krohne G, Lykowsky G, Hildenbrand M, Kampf T, Jakob P, Zernecke A, Bauer WR. Visualization of Vascular Inflammation in the Atherosclerotic Mouse by Ultrasmall Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1–Specific Nanoparticles. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2012; 32:2350-7. [DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.112.255224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Objective—
Noninvasive imaging of atherosclerosis remains challenging in clinical applications. Here, we applied noninvasive molecular imaging to detect vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 in early and advanced atherosclerotic lesions of apolipoprotein E–deficient mice.
Methods and Results—
Ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxide particles functionalized with (P03011) or without (P3007) vascular cell adhesion molecule-1−binding peptide were visualized by ultra high-field (17.6 T) magnetic resonance. Injection of P03011 resulted in a marked signal loss in the aortic root of apolipoprotein E–deficient mice fed a Western diet for 8 and 26 weeks in vivo and ex vivo, compared with preinjection measurements, P3007-injected mice, and P03011- or P3007-injected age-matched C57BL/6 controls. Histological analyses revealed iron accumulations in the intima, in colocalization with vascular cell adhesion molecule-1−expressing macrophages and endothelial cells. Coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy demonstrated iron signals in the intima and media of the aortic root in the P03011-injected but not untreated apolipoprotein E–deficient mice, localized to macrophages, luminal endothelial-like cells, and medial regions containing smooth muscle cells. Electron microscopy confirmed iron particles enclosed in endothelial cells and in the vicinity of smooth muscle cells.
Conclusion—
Using a combination of innovative imaging modalities, in this study, we demonstrate the feasibility of applying P03011 as a contrast agent for imaging of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Michalska
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Lina Machtoub
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Helga D. Manthey
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Elisabeth Bauer
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Volker Herold
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Georg Krohne
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Gunthard Lykowsky
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Markus Hildenbrand
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Thomas Kampf
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Peter Jakob
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Alma Zernecke
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
| | - Wolfgang R. Bauer
- From the Experimentelle Physik V, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., V.H., G.L., T.K., P.J.); Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (M.M., E.B., W.R.B.); Universitätsklinik für Radiodiagnostik, Innsbruck Medical University, Innsbruck, Austria (L.M.); Rudolf-Virchow-Zentrum für Experimentelle Biomedizin, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (H.D.M., A.Z.); Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany (G.K.); MRB Research Center
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Quillard T, Libby P. Molecular imaging of atherosclerosis for improving diagnostic and therapeutic development. Circ Res 2012; 111:231-44. [PMID: 22773426 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.112.268144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite recent progress, cardiovascular and allied metabolic disorders remain a worldwide health challenge. We must identify new targets for therapy, develop new agents for clinical use, and deploy them in a clinically effective and cost-effective manner. Molecular imaging of atherosclerotic lesions has become a major experimental tool in the last decade, notably by providing a direct gateway to the processes involved in atherogenesis and its complications. This review summarizes the current status of molecular imaging approaches that target the key processes implicated in plaque formation, development, and disruption and highlights how the refinement and application of such tools might aid the development and evaluation of novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibaut Quillard
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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21
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Broisat A, Hernot S, Toczek J, De Vos J, Riou LM, Martin S, Ahmadi M, Thielens N, Wernery U, Caveliers V, Muyldermans S, Lahoutte T, Fagret D, Ghezzi C, Devoogdt N. Nanobodies targeting mouse/human VCAM1 for the nuclear imaging of atherosclerotic lesions. Circ Res 2012; 110:927-37. [PMID: 22461363 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.112.265140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE A noninvasive tool allowing the detection of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques is highly needed. By combining nanomolar affinities and fast blood clearance, nanobodies represent potential radiotracers for cardiovascular molecular imaging. Vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM1) constitutes a relevant target for molecular imaging of atherosclerotic lesions. OBJECTIVE We aimed to generate, radiolabel, and evaluate anti-VCAM1 nanobodies for noninvasive detection of atherosclerotic lesions. METHODS AND RESULTS Ten anti-VCAM1 nanobodies were generated, radiolabeled with technetium-99m, and screened in vitro on mouse and human recombinant VCAM1 proteins and endothelial cells and in vivo in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE(-/-)) mice. A nontargeting control nanobody was used in all experiments to demonstrate specificity. All nanobodies displayed nanomolar affinities for murine VCAM1. Flow cytometry analyses using human human umbilical vein endothelial cells indicated murine and human VCAM1 cross-reactivity for 6 of 10 nanobodies. The lead compound cAbVCAM1-5 was cross-reactive for human VCAM1 and exhibited high lesion-to-control (4.95±0.85), lesion-to-heart (8.30±1.11), and lesion-to-blood ratios (4.32±0.48) (P<0.05 versus control C57Bl/6J mice). Aortic arch atherosclerotic lesions of ApoE(-/-) mice were successfully identified by single-photon emission computed tomography imaging. (99m)Tc-cAbVCAM1-5 binding specificity was demonstrated by in vivo competition experiments. Autoradiography and immunohistochemistry further confirmed cAbVCAM1-5 uptake in VCAM1-positive lesions. CONCLUSIONS The (99m)Tc-labeled, anti-VCAM1 nanobody cAbVCAM1-5 allowed noninvasive detection of VCAM1 expression and displayed mouse and human cross-reactivity. Therefore, this study demonstrates the potential of nanobodies as a new class of radiotracers for cardiovascular applications. The nanobody technology might evolve into an important research tool for targeted imaging of atherosclerotic lesions and has the potential for fast clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Broisat
- Laboratoire des Radiopharmaceutiques Bioclinique, INSERM 1039, Grenoble, France.
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22
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McAteer MA, Mankia K, Ruparelia N, Jefferson A, Nugent HB, Stork LA, Channon KM, Schneider JE, Choudhury RP. A leukocyte-mimetic magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent homes rapidly to activated endothelium and tracks with atherosclerotic lesion macrophage content. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2012; 32:1427-35. [PMID: 22499989 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.111.241844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Endothelial cell activation is an important mediator of monocyte recruitment to sites of vascular inflammation. We hypothesized that high-affinity dual-ligand microparticles of iron oxide (MPIO), targeted to P-selectin and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (PV-MPIO), would identify activated endothelial cells during atherosclerosis progression. METHODS AND RESULTS In vivo magnetic resonance imaging in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice showed rapid binding of PV-MPIO to the aortic root, which was maximal 30 minutes post-MPIO injection and maintained at 60 minutes. Minimal binding was observed for control IgG-MPIO. Intensely low magnetic resonance signal areas, corresponding to PV-MPIO binding, were detected early (14 weeks), during foam cell formation. Contrast effects increased at 20 weeks during fibrofatty lesion development (P<0.05), but reduced by 30 weeks (P<0.01). Across all lesion severities, magnetic resonance imaging contrast effects correlated with lesion macrophage area quantified by immunohistochemistry (R=0.53; P<0.01). Near-infrared fluorescently labeled PV-MPIO were shown, by flow cytometry, to bind only activated endothelial cells and not to macrophages. Using en face immunofluorescence, we further demonstrate selective PV-MPIO accumulation at atherosclerosis-susceptible sites, with minimal binding to atherosclerosis-spared regions. CONCLUSIONS This high-affinity leukocyte-mimetic magnetic resonance imaging agent reveals endothelial activation. PV-MPIO demonstrate exceptionally rapid in vivo steady state accumulation, providing conspicuous magnetic resonance contrast effects that can be objectively quantified. In atherosclerosis progression, PV-MPIO tracked closely with the burden and distribution of plaque macrophages, not merely plaque size. On a biocompatible platform, this approach has potential for quantitative magnetic resonance imaging of inflammatory disease activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina A McAteer
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Level 6 West Wing, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
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Dvoriantchikova G, Hernandez E, Grant J, Santos ARC, Yang H, Ivanov D. The high-mobility group box-1 nuclear factor mediates retinal injury after ischemia reperfusion. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2011; 52:7187-94. [PMID: 21828158 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.11-7793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE High-mobility group protein B1 (Hmgb1) is released from necrotic cells and induces an inflammatory response. Although Hmgb1 has been implicated in ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury of the brain, its role in IR injury of the retina remains unclear. Here, the authors provide evidence that Hmgb1 contributes to retinal damage after IR. METHODS Retinal IR injury was induced by unilateral elevation of intraocular pressure and the level of Hmgb1 in vitreous humor was analyzed 24 hours after reperfusion. To test the functional significance of Hmgb1 release, ischemic or normal retinas were treated with the neutralizing anti-Hmgb1 antibody or recombinant Hmgb1 protein respectively. To elucidate in which cell type Hmgb1 exerts its effect, primary retinal ganglion cell (RGC) cultures and glia RGC cocultures were treated with Hmgb1. To clarify the downstream signaling pathways involved in Hmgb1-induced effects in the ischemic retina, receptor for advanced glycation end products (Rage)-deficient mice (RageKO) were used. RESULTS Hmgb1 is accumulated in the vitreous humor 24 hours after IR. Inhibition of Hmgb1 activity with neutralizing antibody significantly decreased retinal damage after IR, whereas treatment of retinas or retinal cells with Hmgb1 induced a loss of RGCs. The analysis of RageKO versus wild-type mice showed significantly reduced expression of proinflammatory genes 24 hours after reperfusion and significantly increased survival of ganglion cell layer neurons 7 days after IR injury. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that an increased level of Hmgb1 and signaling via the Rage contribute to neurotoxicity after retinal IR injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina Dvoriantchikova
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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Lee GY, Kim JH, Oh GT, Lee BH, Kwon IC, Kim IS. Molecular targeting of atherosclerotic plaques by a stabilin-2-specific peptide ligand. J Control Release 2011; 155:211-7. [PMID: 21781994 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2011.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Revised: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 07/05/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Many cells, including macrophages, accumulate in atherosclerotic lesions, destabilizing plaques and driving plaque disruption. Therefore, macrophages serve as useful targets for atherosclerosis treatment and imaging. Stabilin-2 is a transmembrane protein expressed predominantly in macrophages and endothelial cells. In the present study, we found that stabilin-2 was widely expressed in atherosclerotic plaques than in normal vessel walls, and was present not only in macrophages but also in endothelial and smooth muscle cells in plaques. We used phage display technology to identify peptides that specifically bound to stabilin-2. After four rounds of selection, the most commonly isolated peptide had the sequence CRTLTVRKC, and was named S2P. We confirmed that this peptide specifically bound to stabilin-2-expressing cells in vitro and sinus endothelial cells in the spleen and lymph nodes in vivo. A FITC-conjugated synthetic CRTLTVRKC peptide was shown to home to atherosclerotic plaques in Ldlr-/- mice and to co-localize with endothelial cells, macrophages, and smooth muscle cells in such plaques. S2P conjugated to hydrophobically modified glycol chitosan nanoparticles was efficiently delivered to atherosclerotic plaques. These results show that the CRLTLTVRKC peptide homes to plaques by targeting stabilin-2; the peptide shows promise as a drug delivery moiety for, and an aid to molecular imaging of, atherosclerosis and other inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ga Young Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Cell and Matrix Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, 101 Dongin 2Ga, Jung-Gu, Daegu 700-422, Republic of Korea
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Hagemeyer CE, Ahrens I, Bassler N, Dschachutaschwili N, Chen YC, Eisenhardt SU, Bode C, Peter K. Genetic transfer of fusion proteins effectively inhibits VCAM-1-mediated cell adhesion and transmigration via inhibition of cytoskeletal anchorage. J Cell Mol Med 2011; 14:290-302. [PMID: 20414973 PMCID: PMC3837607 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2008.00409.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The adhesion of leukocytes to endothelium plays a central role in the development of atherosclerosis and thus represents an attractive therapeutic target for anti-atherosclerotic therapies. Vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) mediates both the initial tethering and the firm adhesion of leukocytes to endothelial cells. Our work evaluates the feasibility of using the cytoskeletal anchorage of VCAM-1 as a target for gene therapy. As a proof of concept, integrin αIIbβ3-mediated cell adhesion with clearly defined cytoskeletal anchorage was tested. We constructed fusion proteins containing the intracellular domain of β3 placed at various distances to the cell membrane. Using cell adhesion assays and immunofluorescence, we established fusion constructs with competitive and dominant negative inhibition of cell adhesion. With the goal being the transfer of the dominant negative mechanism towards VCAM-1 inhibition, we constructed a fusion molecule containing the cytoplasmic domain of VCAM-1. Indeed, VCAM-1 mediated leukocyte adhesion can be inhibited via transfection of DNA encoding the designed VCAM-1 fusion protein. This is demonstrated in adhesion assays under static and flow conditions using CHO cells expressing recombinant VCAM-1 as well as activated endothelial cells. Thus, we are able to describe a novel approach for dominant negative inhibition of leukocyte adhesion to endothelial cells. This approach warrants further development as a novel gene therapeutic strategy that aims for a locally restricted effect at atherosclerotic areas of the vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph E Hagemeyer
- Centre for Thrombosis and Myocardial Infarction, Baker Heart Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
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Driessen W, Kee PH. Targeted Molecular Imaging to Detect Vascular Disease. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR RISK REPORTS 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s12170-010-0116-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Burtea C, Laurent S, Port M, Lancelot E, Ballet S, Rousseaux O, Toubeau G, Vander Elst L, Corot C, Muller RN. Magnetic Resonance Molecular Imaging of Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 Expression in Inflammatory Lesions Using a Peptide-Vectorized Paramagnetic Imaging Probe. J Med Chem 2009; 52:4725-42. [DOI: 10.1021/jm9002654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Burtea
- Department of General, Organic and Biomedical Chemistry, NMR and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, University of Mons, 24 Avenue du Champ de Mars, B-7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Sophie Laurent
- Department of General, Organic and Biomedical Chemistry, NMR and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, University of Mons, 24 Avenue du Champ de Mars, B-7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Marc Port
- Guerbet, Research Center, 16-24 Rue Jean Chaptal, 93600 Aulnay-sous-Bois, France
| | - Eric Lancelot
- Guerbet, Research Center, 16-24 Rue Jean Chaptal, 93600 Aulnay-sous-Bois, France
| | - Sébastien Ballet
- Guerbet, Research Center, 16-24 Rue Jean Chaptal, 93600 Aulnay-sous-Bois, France
| | - Olivier Rousseaux
- Guerbet, Research Center, 16-24 Rue Jean Chaptal, 93600 Aulnay-sous-Bois, France
| | - Gérard Toubeau
- Laboratory of Histology, University of Mons, Pentagon 1B, 6 Avenue du Champ de Mars, B-7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Luce Vander Elst
- Department of General, Organic and Biomedical Chemistry, NMR and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, University of Mons, 24 Avenue du Champ de Mars, B-7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Claire Corot
- Guerbet, Research Center, 16-24 Rue Jean Chaptal, 93600 Aulnay-sous-Bois, France
| | - Robert N. Muller
- Department of General, Organic and Biomedical Chemistry, NMR and Molecular Imaging Laboratory, University of Mons, 24 Avenue du Champ de Mars, B-7000 Mons, Belgium
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Riou LM, Broisat A, Dimastromatteo J, Pons G, Fagret D, Ghezzi C. Pre-clinical and clinical evaluation of nuclear tracers for the molecular imaging of vulnerable atherosclerosis: an overview. Curr Med Chem 2009; 16:1499-511. [PMID: 19355903 DOI: 10.2174/092986709787909596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Despite major advances in the treatment of CVD, a high proportion of CVD victims die suddenly while being apparently healthy, the great majority of these accidents being due to the rupture or erosion of a vulnerable coronary atherosclerotic plaque. A non-invasive imaging methodology allowing the early detection of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques in selected individuals prior to the occurrence of any symptom would therefore be of great public health benefit. Nuclear imaging could allow the identification of vulnerable patients by non-invasive in vivo scintigraphic imaging following administration of a radiolabeled tracer. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of radiotracers that have been recently evaluated for the detection of vulnerable plaques together with the biological rationale that initiated their development. Radiotracers targeted at the inflammatory process seem particularly relevant and promising. Recently, macrophage targeting allowed the experimental in vivo detection of atherosclerosis using either SPECT or PET. A few tracers have also been evaluated clinically. Targeting of apoptosis and macrophage metabolism both allowed the imaging of vulnerable plaques in carotid vessels of patients. However, nuclear imaging of vulnerable plaques at the level of coronary arteries remains challenging, mostly because of their small size and their vicinity with unbound circulating tracer. The experimental and pilot clinical studies reviewed in the present paper represent a fundamental step prior to the evaluation of the efficacy of any selected tracer for the early, non-invasive detection of vulnerable patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Riou
- INSERM, U877, Radiopharmaceutiques Biocliniques, Faculté de Médecine de Grenoble, F-38700, La tronche, France.
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Imaging of vulnerable plaque: Potential breakthrough or pipe dream? CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR IMAGING REPORTS 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s12410-009-0021-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Douma K, Prinzen L, Slaaf DW, Reutelingsperger CPM, Biessen EAL, Hackeng TM, Post MJ, van Zandvoort MAMJ. Nanoparticles for optical molecular imaging of atherosclerosis. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2009; 5:544-557. [PMID: 19226595 DOI: 10.1002/smll.200801079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Molecular imaging contributes to future personalized medicine dedicated to the treatment of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of mortality in industrialized countries. Endoscope-compatible optical imaging techniques would offer a stand-alone alternative and high spatial resolution validation technique to clinically accepted imaging techniques in the (intravascular) assessment of vulnerable atherosclerotic lesions, which are predisposed to initiate acute clinical events. Efficient optical visualization of molecular epitopes specific for vulnerable atherosclerotic lesions requires targeting of high-quality optical-contrast-enhancing particles. In this review, we provide an overview of both current optical nanoparticles and targeting ligands for optical molecular imaging of atherosclerotic lesions and speculate on their applicability in the clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Douma
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Khaw BA. Gamma imaging of atherosclerotic plaques. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR IMAGING REPORTS 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/s12410-009-0003-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Wick MC, Kremser C, Frischauf S, Wick G. In vivo molecular imaging of vascular stress. Cell Stress Chaperones 2008; 13:263-73. [PMID: 18465206 PMCID: PMC2673941 DOI: 10.1007/s12192-008-0043-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2008] [Accepted: 03/31/2008] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Noninvasive in vivo imaging is an emerging specialty in experimental radiology aiming at developing hardware and appropriate contrast agents to visualize the molecular basis and pathophysiological processes of many pathological conditions, including atherosclerosis. The list of potentially useful tracers and targets for in vivo molecular imaging in the cascade of early atherosclerotic events has been narrowed down to some very promising endothelial factors, i.e., cell adhesion molecules, macrophages, apoptosis, lipoproteins, heat shock proteins, and others. In this review, we will update on the progress of recent developments in the field of noninvasive molecular imaging in experimental atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius C Wick
- Department of Radiology, Innsbruck Medical University, Anichstrasse 35, Innsbruck, Austria.
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Foin N, Evans P, Krams R. Atherosclerosis: cell biology and lipoproteins - new developments in imaging of inflammation of the vulnerable plaque. Curr Opin Lipidol 2008; 19:98-100. [PMID: 18196994 DOI: 10.1097/mol.0b013e3282f41b60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Foin
- Department of Cardiovascular Cell Biology, Imperial College, London, UK
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