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Li L, Chen X, Yu J, Yuan S. Preliminary Clinical Application of RGD-Containing Peptides as PET Radiotracers for Imaging Tumors. Front Oncol 2022; 12:837952. [PMID: 35311120 PMCID: PMC8924613 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.837952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a common feature of many physiological processes and pathological conditions. RGD-containing peptides can strongly bind to integrin αvβ3 expressed on endothelial cells in neovessels and several tumor cells with high specificity, making them promising molecular agents for imaging angiogenesis. Although studies of RGD-containing peptides combined with radionuclides, namely, 18F, 64Cu, and 68Ga for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging have shown high spatial resolution and accurate quantification of tracer uptake, only a few of these radiotracers have been successfully translated into clinical use. This review summarizes the RGD-based tracers in terms of accumulation in tumors and adjacent tissues, and comparison with traditional 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) imaging. The value of RGD-based tracers for diagnosis, differential diagnosis, tumor subvolume delineation, and therapeutic response prediction is mainly discussed. Very low RGD accumulation, in contrast to high FDG metabolism, was found in normal brain tissue, indicating that RGD-based imaging provides an excellent tumor-to-background ratio for improved brain tumor imaging. However, the intensity of the RGD-based tracers is much higher than FDG in normal liver tissue, which could lead to underestimation of primary or metastatic lesions in liver. In multiple studies, RGD-based imaging successfully realized the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of solid tumors and also the prediction of chemoradiotherapy response, providing complementary rather than similar information relative to FDG imaging. Of most interest, baseline RGD uptake values can not only be used to predict the tumor efficacy of antiangiogenic therapy, but also to monitor the occurrence of adverse events in normal organs. This unique dual predictive value in antiangiogenic therapy may be better than that of FDG-based imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Chen
- Departments of Diagnostic Radiology, Surgery, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine and Faculty of Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Clinical Imaging Research Centre, Centre for Translational Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Nanomedicine Translational Research Program, NUS Center for Nanomedicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jinming Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shuanghu Yuan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Shandong Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Yang H, Qian W, Yang L, Xie H, Jiang H. In Vivo Evaluation of a Miniaturized Fluorescence Molecular Tomography (FMT) Endoscope for Breast Cancer Detection Using Targeted Nanoprobes. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249389. [PMID: 33317217 PMCID: PMC7764232 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, in vivo animal experiments with 12 nude mice bearing breast-cancer-patient-tissue-derived xenograft (PDX) tumors were performed aiming to verify the imaging capability of a novel miniaturized fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT) endoscope, in combination with targeted nanoparticle–near-infrared (NIR) dye conjugates. Tumor-bearing mice were divided into two groups by systematic injection with urokinase plasminogen activator receptor-targeted (n = 7) and nontargeted (n = 5) imaging nanoprobes as a contrast agent, respectively. Each mouse was imaged at 6, 24, and 48 h following the injection of nanoprobes using the FMT endoscope. The results show that systemic delivery of targeted nanoprobes produced a 4-fold enhancement in fluorescence signals from tumors, compared with tumors that received nontargeted nanoprobes. This study indicates that our miniaturized FMT endoscope, coupled with the targeted nanoparticle–NIR dye conjugates as a contrast agent, has high sensitivity and specificity, and thus great potential to be used for image-guided detection and removal of a primary tumor and local metastatic tumors during surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yang
- Department of Medical Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Weipin Qian
- Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (W.Q.); (L.Y.)
| | - Lily Yang
- Department of Surgery, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (W.Q.); (L.Y.)
| | - Huikai Xie
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA;
| | - Huabei Jiang
- Department of Medical Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-813-974-5253
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3
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Monitoring Endothelin-A Receptor Expression during the Progression of Atherosclerosis. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8120538. [PMID: 33255872 PMCID: PMC7761144 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8120538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease remains the most frequent cause of death worldwide. Atherosclerosis, an underlying cause of cardiovascular disease, is an inflammatory disorder associated with endothelial dysfunction. The endothelin system plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction and is involved in the development of atherosclerosis. We aimed to reveal the expression levels of the endothelin-A receptor (ETAR) in the course of atherogenesis to reveal possible time frames for targeted imaging and interventions. We used the ApoE−/− mice model and human specimens and evaluated ETAR expression by quantitative rtPCR (qPCR), histology and fluorescence molecular imaging. We found a significant upregulation of ETAR after 22 weeks of high-fat diet in the aortae of ApoE−/− mice. With regard to translation to human disease, we applied the fluorescent probe to fresh explants of human carotid and femoral artery specimens. The findings were correlated with qPCR and histology. While ETAR is upregulated during the progression of early atherosclerosis in the ApoE−/− mouse model, we found that ETAR expression is substantially reduced in advanced human atherosclerotic plaques. Moreover, those expression changes were clearly depicted by fluorescence imaging using our in-house designed ETAR-Cy 5.5 probe confirming its specificity and potential use in future studies.
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Zeng Q, Lu W, Deng Z, Wu J, Guo R, Xu X. Tablysin-15 inhibits osteoclastogenesis and LPS-induced bone loss via attenuating the integrin α vβ 3 pathway. Chem Biol Interact 2020; 327:109179. [PMID: 32534990 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2020.109179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Excessive osteoclast leads to the imbalance in bone reconstruction and results in osteolytic diseases, such as osteoporosis and rheumatic arthritis. Integrin αvβ3 abundantly expresses on osteoclast and plays a critical role in the formation and function of osteoclast, therefore, blockage of αvβ3 has become an attractive therapeutic option for osteolytic diseases. In this study, we find that Tablysin-15, a RGD motif containing disintegrin, concentration-dependently suppresses RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis, F-actin ring formation and bone resorption without affecting the cell viabilities. Tablysin-15 binds to integrin αvβ3 and inhibits the activation of FAK-associated signaling pathways. Tablysin-15 also suppresses the activation of NF-кB, MAPK, and Akt-NFATc1 signaling pathways, which are crucial transcription factors during osteoclast differentiation. Moreover, Tablysin-15 decreases the osteoclastogenesis marker gene expression, including MMP-9, TRAP, CTSK, and c-Src. Finally, Tablysin-15 significantly inhibits LPS-induced bone loss in a mouse model. Taken together, our results indicate that Tablysin-15 significantly suppresses osteoclastogenesis in vitro and in vivo, thus it might be a excellent candidate for treating osteolytic-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingye Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Wancheng Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Zhenhui Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Jiena Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Ruiyin Guo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China
| | - Xueqing Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of New Drug Screening, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, China.
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Yang H, Wang D, Shan T, Dai X, Xie H, Yang L, Jiang H. Miniature fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT) endoscope based on a MEMS scanning mirror and an optical fiberscope. Phys Med Biol 2019; 64:125015. [PMID: 31117059 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ab23b3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
We present a novel FMT endoscope by using a MEMS scanning mirror and an optical fiberscope. The diameter of this highly miniaturized FMT device is only 5 mm. To our knowledge, this is the smallest FMT device we found so far. Several phantom experiments based on indocyanine green (ICG) were conducted to demonstrate the imaging ability of this device. Two tumor-bearing mice were systematically injected with tumor-targeted NIR fluorescent probes (ATF-PEG-IO-830) and were then imaged to further demonstrate the ability of this FMT endoscope for imaging small animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yang
- Department of Medical Engineering, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States of America. Author to whom any correspondence should be addressed
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Jiang L, Zhu H, Li Y, Wu X, Wang H, Cheng Z. Detecting Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaques by 68Ga-Labeled Divalent Cystine Knot Peptide. Mol Pharm 2019; 16:1350-1357. [PMID: 30742442 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.8b01291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Jiang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hong Zhu
- Laboratory of Oral Microbiology, Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Ninth People’s Hospital, School of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xiaodong Wu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Huoqiang Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Zhen Cheng
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology and Bio-X Program, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305-5484, United States
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YANG HAO, DAI XIANJIN, JIANG HUABEI. Full density fluorescence molecular tomography (FD-FMT) based on a dichroic mirror. APPLIED OPTICS 2018; 57:7938-7941. [PMID: 30462063 PMCID: PMC6541215 DOI: 10.1364/ao.57.007938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
We present a novel method called full density fluorescence molecular tomography (FD-FMT) that can considerably improve the performance of conventional FMT. By converting each source (or detector) to a detector (or source) through the use of a dichroic mirror, FD-FMT not only increases the amount of optical projections by more than fourfold (compared to conventional FMT) to achieve high-resolution image reconstruction, but also offers the possibility to realize miniaturized FMT systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- HAO YANG
- Department of Medical Engineering, University of South Florida, 3802 Spectrum Blvd., Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
| | - XIANJIN DAI
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, 1275 Center Drive, Gainesville, Florida 32611, USA
| | - HUABEI JIANG
- Department of Medical Engineering, University of South Florida, 3802 Spectrum Blvd., Tampa, Florida 33612, USA
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8
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Comparing the Differential Diagnostic Values of 18F-Alfatide II PET/CT between Tuberculosis and Lung Cancer Patients. CONTRAST MEDIA & MOLECULAR IMAGING 2018; 2018:8194678. [PMID: 29670497 PMCID: PMC5836463 DOI: 10.1155/2018/8194678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To compare the differential diagnostic values of 18F-Alfatide II PET/CT between tuberculosis and lung cancer patients and in patients with sarcoidosis and common inflammation. Methods Nine inflammation patients (4 tuberculosis, 3 sarcoidosis, and 2 common inflammation) and 11 lung cancer patients were included in this study. All patients underwent 18F-FDG and 18F-Alfatide II PET/CT within 2 weeks, followed by biopsy and surgery. The maximized standard uptake value (SUVmax) and the mean standard uptake value (SUVmean) were evaluated. Results The active tuberculosis lesions showed a high accumulation of 18F-FDG, but varying degrees of accumulation of 18F-Alfatide II, including negative results. The SUVmax of 18F-Alfatide II in malignant lesions was significantly higher than that in tuberculosis (4.08 ± 1.51 versus 2.63 ± 1.34, P = 0.0078). Three patients with sarcoidosis showed negative results in 18F-Alfatide II PET/CT. Conclusions The expression of αVβ3 is much lower in tuberculosis as compared to that in lung cancer, and accumulation of 18F-Alfatide II varied even in lesions of the same patient. The negative results of sarcoidosis patients led to the speculation that αVβ3 was not expressed in those lesions.
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9
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Liu X, Li Y, Tan X, Rao R, Ren Y, Liu L, Yang X, Liu W. Multifunctional hybrid micelles with tunable active targeting and acid/phosphatase-stimulated drug release for enhanced tumor suppression. Biomaterials 2017; 157:136-148. [PMID: 29268144 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic efficacy of conventional single PEGylated polymeric micelles is significantly reduced by limited endocytosis and intracellular drug release. To improve drug delivery efficiency, poly (ethylene glycol)-block-poly (l-lactic acid)/(Arg-Gly-Asp-Phe)-poly (aminoethyl ethylene phosphate)-block-poly (l-lactic acid) (PEG-PLLA/RGDF-PAEEP-PLLA) hybrid micelles with tunable active targeting and acid/phosphatase-stimulated drug release are developed. The optimized hybrid micelles with 6 wt % of RGDF have favorable in vitro and in vivo activities. The hybrid micelles could temporarily shield the targeting efficacy of RGDF at pH 7.4 due to the steric effect exerted by concealment of RGDF peptides in the PEG corona, which strongly decreases the clearance by mononuclear phagocyte system and consequently improves the tumor accumulation. Inside the solid tumor with a lower acidic pH, the hybrid micelles restore the active tumor targeting property with exposed RGDF on the surface of the micelles because of the increased protonation and stretching degree of PAEEP blocks. RGDF-mediated endocytosis improves the tumor cell uptake. The hybrid micelles would also enhance intracellular drug release because of the hydrolysis of the acid/phosphatase-sensitivity of PAEEP blocks in endo/lysosome. Systemic administration of the hybrid micelles significantly inhibits tumor growth by 96% due to the integration of enhanced circulation time, tumor accumulation, cell uptake and intracellular drug release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuhan Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Yinghuan Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China.
| | - Xi Tan
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Rong Rao
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Ren
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Lingyan Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, PR China
| | - Xiangliang Yang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China; National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China
| | - Wei Liu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China; National Engineering Research Center for Nanomedicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, PR China.
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Kim M, Sahu A, Kim GB, Nam GH, Um W, Shin SJ, Jeong YY, Kim IS, Kim K, Kwon IC, Tae G. Comparison of in vivo targeting ability between cRGD and collagen-targeting peptide conjugated nano-carriers for atherosclerosis. J Control Release 2017; 269:337-346. [PMID: 29175140 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2017.11.033] [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: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis plaque is a major cause of cardiovascular diseases across the globe and a silent killer. There are no physical symptoms of the disease in its early stage and current diagnostic techniques cannot detect the small plaques effectively or safely. Plaques formed in blood vessels can cause serious clinical problems such as impaired blood flow or sudden death, regardless of their size. Thus, detecting early stage of plaques is especially more important to effectively reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Nanoparticle based delivery systems are recognized as a promising option to fight against this disease, and various targeting ligands are typically used to improve their efficiency. So, the choice of appropriate targeting ligand is a crucial factor for optimal targeting efficiency. cRGD peptide and collagen IV targeting peptide, which binds with the αvβ3 integrin overexpressed in the neovasculature of the plaque and collagen type IV present in the plaque, respectively, are frequently used for the targeting of nanoparticles. However, at present no study has directly compared these two peptides. Therefore, in this study, we have prepared cRGD or collagen IV targeting (Col IV-tg-) peptide conjugated and iron oxide nanoparticle (IONP) loaded Pluronic based nano-carriers for systemic comparison of their targeting ability towards in vivo atherosclerotic plaque in Apolipoprotein E deficient (Apo E-/-) mouse model. Nano-carriers with similar size, surface charge, and IONP loading content but with different targeting ligands were analyzed through in vitro and in vivo experiments. Near infrared fluorescence imaging and magnetic resonance imaging techniques as well as Prussian blue staining were used to compare the accumulation of different ligand conjugated nano-caariers in the aorta of atherosclerotic mice. Our results indicate that cRGD based targeting is more efficient than Col IV-tg-peptide in the early stage of atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manse Kim
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Abhishek Sahu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Beom Kim
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; KU-KIST School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Hoon Nam
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; KU-KIST School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Wooram Um
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; Department of Health Sciences and Technology, SAIHST, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 06351, Republic of Korea
| | - So Jin Shin
- Department of Radiology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Gwangju 61469, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Yeon Jeong
- Department of Radiology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Gwangju 61469, Republic of Korea
| | - In-San Kim
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; KU-KIST School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwangmeyung Kim
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; KU-KIST School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ick Chan Kwon
- Center for Theragnosis, Biomedical Research Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea; KU-KIST School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Giyoong Tae
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of Korea.
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Bui NQ, Hlaing KK, Lee YW, Kang HW, Oh J. Ex vivodetection of macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques using intravascular ultrasonic-photoacoustic imaging. Phys Med Biol 2016; 62:501-516. [DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/aa4f6b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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12
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Molecular Imaging of Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaques in Animal Models. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17091511. [PMID: 27618031 PMCID: PMC5037788 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17091511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is characterized by intimal plaques of the arterial vessels that develop slowly and, in some cases, may undergo spontaneous rupture with subsequent heart attack or stroke. Currently, noninvasive diagnostic tools are inadequate to screen atherosclerotic lesions at high risk of acute complications. Therefore, the attention of the scientific community has been focused on the use of molecular imaging for identifying vulnerable plaques. Genetically engineered murine models such as ApoE−/− and ApoE−/−Fbn1C1039G+/− mice have been shown to be useful for testing new probes targeting biomarkers of relevant molecular processes for the characterization of vulnerable plaques, such as vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-1, VEGFR-2, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, P-selectin, and integrins, and for the potential development of translational tools to identify high-risk patients who could benefit from early therapeutic interventions. This review summarizes the main animal models of vulnerable plaques, with an emphasis on genetically altered mice, and the state-of-the-art preclinical molecular imaging strategies.
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Molecular Imaging of Angiogenesis and Vascular Remodeling in Cardiovascular Pathology. J Clin Med 2016; 5:jcm5060057. [PMID: 27275836 PMCID: PMC4929412 DOI: 10.3390/jcm5060057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Revised: 05/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis and vascular remodeling are involved in a wide array of cardiovascular diseases, from myocardial ischemia and peripheral arterial disease, to atherosclerosis and aortic aneurysm. Molecular imaging techniques to detect and quantify key molecular and cellular players in angiogenesis and vascular remodeling (e.g., vascular endothelial growth factor and its receptors, αvβ3 integrin, and matrix metalloproteinases) can advance vascular biology research and serve as clinical tools for early diagnosis, risk stratification, and selection of patients who would benefit most from therapeutic interventions. To target these key mediators, a number of molecular imaging techniques have been developed and evaluated in animal models of angiogenesis and vascular remodeling. This review of the state of the art molecular imaging of angiogenesis and vascular (and valvular) remodeling, will focus mostly on nuclear imaging techniques (positron emission tomography and single photon emission tomography) that offer high potential for clinical translation.
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Kim JB, Park K, Ryu J, Lee JJ, Lee MW, Cho HS, Nam HS, Park OK, Song JW, Kim TS, Oh DJ, Gweon D, Oh WY, Yoo H, Kim JW. Intravascular optical imaging of high-risk plaques in vivo by targeting macrophage mannose receptors. Sci Rep 2016; 6:22608. [PMID: 26948523 PMCID: PMC4780083 DOI: 10.1038/srep22608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages mediate atheroma expansion and disruption, and denote high-risk arterial plaques. Therefore, they are substantially gaining importance as a diagnostic imaging target for the detection of rupture-prone plaques. Here, we developed an injectable near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) probe by chemically conjugating thiolated glycol chitosan with cholesteryl chloroformate, NIRF dye (cyanine 5.5 or 7), and maleimide-polyethylene glycol-mannose as mannose receptor binding ligands to specifically target a subset of macrophages abundant in high-risk plaques. This probe showed high affinity to mannose receptors, low toxicity, and allowed the direct visualization of plaque macrophages in murine carotid atheroma. After the scale-up of the MMR-NIRF probe, the administration of the probe facilitated in vivo intravascular imaging of plaque inflammation in coronary-sized vessels of atheromatous rabbits using a custom-built dual-modal optical coherence tomography (OCT)-NIRF catheter-based imaging system. This novel imaging approach represents a potential imaging strategy enabling the identification of high-risk plaques in vivo and holds promise for future clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Bak Kim
- Multimodal Imaging and Theranostic Lab, Cardiovascular Center, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeongsoon Park
- Division of Bio-imaging, Chuncheon Center, Korea Basic Science Institute, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiheun Ryu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Joong Lee
- Multimodal Imaging and Theranostic Lab, Cardiovascular Center, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Woo Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Saem Cho
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeong Soo Nam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ok Kyu Park
- Division of Bio-imaging, Chuncheon Center, Korea Basic Science Institute, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Woo Song
- Multimodal Imaging and Theranostic Lab, Cardiovascular Center, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Shik Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Joo Oh
- Multimodal Imaging and Theranostic Lab, Cardiovascular Center, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - DaeGab Gweon
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Wang-Yuhl Oh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hongki Yoo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Won Kim
- Multimodal Imaging and Theranostic Lab, Cardiovascular Center, Korea University Guro Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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15
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Liu S. Radiolabeled Cyclic RGD Peptide Bioconjugates as Radiotracers Targeting Multiple Integrins. Bioconjug Chem 2015; 26:1413-38. [PMID: 26193072 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.5b00327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a requirement for tumor growth and metastasis. The angiogenic process depends on vascular endothelial cell migration and invasion, and is regulated by various cell adhesion receptors. Integrins are such a family of receptors that facilitate the cellular adhesion to and migration on extracellular matrix proteins in the intercellular spaces and basement membranes. Among 24 members of the integrin family, αvβ3 is studied most extensively for its role in tumor angiogenesis and metastasis. The αvβ3 is expressed at relatively low levels on epithelial cells and mature endothelial cells, but it is highly expressed on the activated endothelial cells of tumor neovasculature and some tumor cells. This restricted expression makes αvβ3 an excellent target to develop antiangiogenic drugs and diagnostic molecular imaging probes. Since αvβ3 is a receptor for extracellular matrix proteins with one or more RGD tripeptide sequence, many radiolabeled cyclic RGD peptides have been evaluated as "αvβ3-targeted" radiotracers for tumor imaging over the past decade. This article will use the dimeric and tetrameric cyclic RGD peptides developed in our laboratories as examples to illustrate basic principles for development of αvβ3-targeted radiotracers. It will focus on different approaches to maximize the radiotracer tumor uptake and tumor/background ratios. This article will also discuss some important assays for preclinical evaluations of integrin-targeted radiotracers. In general, multimerization of cyclic RGD peptides increases their integrin binding affinity and the tumor uptake and retention times of their radiotracers. Regardless of their multiplicity, the capability of cyclic RGD peptides to bind other integrins (namely, αvβ5, α5β1, α6β4, α4β1, and αvβ6) is expected to enhance the radiotracer tumor uptake due to the increased integrin population. The results from preclinical and clinical studies clearly show that radiolabeled cyclic RGD peptides (such as (99m)Tc-3P-RGD2, (18)F-Alfatide-I, and (18)F-Alfatide-II) are useful as the molecular imaging probes for early cancer detection and noninvasive monitoring of the tumor response to antiangiogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liu
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, 550 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, United States
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16
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Jiang L, Tu Y, Kimura RH, Habte F, Chen H, Cheng K, Shi H, Gambhir SS, Cheng Z. 64Cu-Labeled Divalent Cystine Knot Peptide for Imaging Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaques. J Nucl Med 2015; 56:939-44. [PMID: 25908832 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.115.155176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The rupture of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques that lead to stroke and myocardial infarction may be induced by macrophage infiltration and augmented by the expression of integrin αvβ3. Indeed, atherosclerotic angiogenesis may be a promising marker of inflammation. In this study, an engineered integrin αvβ3-targeting PET probe, (64)Cu-NOTA-3-4A, derived from a divalent knottin miniprotein was evaluated in a mouse model for carotid atherosclerotic plaques. METHODS Atherosclerotic plaques in BALB/C mice, maintained on a high-fat diet, were induced with streptozotocin injection and carotid artery ligation and verified by MR imaging. Knottin 3-4A was synthesized by solid-phase peptide synthesis chemistry and coupled to 1,4,7-triazacyclononane-1,4,7-triacetic acid (NOTA) before radiolabeling with (64)Cu. PET probe stability in mouse serum was evaluated. Mice with carotid atherosclerotic plaques were injected via the tail vein with (64)Cu-NOTA-3-4A or (18)F-FDG, followed by small-animal PET/CT imaging at different time points. Receptor targeting specificity of the probe was verified by coinjection of c(RGDyK) administered in molar excess. Subsequently, carotid artery dissection and immunofluorescence staining were performed to evaluate target expression. RESULTS (64)Cu-NOTA-3-4A was synthesized in high radiochemical purity and yield and demonstrated molecular stability in both phosphate-buffered saline and mouse serum at 4 h. Small-animal PET/CT showed that (64)Cu-NOTA-3-4A accumulated at significantly higher levels in the neovasculature of carotid atherosclerotic plaques (7.41 ± 1.44 vs. 0.67 ± 0.23 percentage injected dose/gram, P < 0.05) than healthy or normal vessels at 1 h after injection. (18)F-FDG also accumulated in atherosclerotic lesions at 0.5 and 1 h after injection but at lower plaque-to-normal tissue ratios than (64)Cu-NOTA-3-4A. For example, plaque-to-normal carotid artery ratios for (18)F-FDG and (64)Cu-NOTA-3-4A at 1 h after injection were 3.75 and 14.71 (P < 0.05), respectively. Furthermore, uptake of (64)Cu-NOTA-3-4A in atherosclerotic plaques was effectively blocked (∼90% at 1 h after injection) by coinjection of c(RGDyK). Immunostaining confirmed integrin αvβ3 expression in both the infiltrating macrophages and the neovasculature of atherosclerotic plaques. CONCLUSION (64)Cu-NOTA-3-4A demonstrates specific accumulation in carotid atherosclerotic plaques in which macrophage infiltration and angiogenesis are responsible for elevated integrin αvβ3 levels. Therefore, (64)Cu-NOTA-3-4A may demonstrate clinical utility as a PET probe for atherosclerosis imaging or for the evaluation of therapies used to treat atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Jiang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; and Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology and Bio-X Program, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Yingfeng Tu
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology and Bio-X Program, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Richard H Kimura
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology and Bio-X Program, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Frezghi Habte
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology and Bio-X Program, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Hao Chen
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology and Bio-X Program, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Kai Cheng
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology and Bio-X Program, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Hongcheng Shi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; and
| | - Sanjiv Sam Gambhir
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology and Bio-X Program, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Zhen Cheng
- Molecular Imaging Program at Stanford (MIPS), Department of Radiology and Bio-X Program, Canary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early Detection, Stanford University, Stanford, California
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17
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FMTPen: A Miniaturized Handheld Fluorescence Molecular Tomography Probe for Image-Guided Cancer Surgery. PHOTONICS 2015. [DOI: 10.3390/photonics2010279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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18
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Alsibai W, Hahnenkamp A, Eisenblätter M, Riemann B, Schäfers M, Bremer C, Haufe G, Höltke C. Fluorescent Non-peptidic RGD Mimetics with High Selectivity for αVβ3 vs αIIbβ3 Integrin Receptor: Novel Probes for in Vivo Optical Imaging. J Med Chem 2014; 57:9971-82. [DOI: 10.1021/jm501197c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michel Eisenblätter
- Division
of Imaging Sciences, King’s College London, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Christoph Bremer
- Clinic for Radiology, St. Franziskus Hospital Muenster, Muenster D-48145, Germany
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19
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Surface modification of cowpea chlorotic mottle virus capsids via a copper(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) reaction and their adhesion behavior with HeLa cells. BIOTECHNOL BIOPROC E 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s12257-014-0145-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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20
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Yoo JS, Das RK, Jow ZY, Chang YT. In vivo detection of macrophage recruitment in hind-limb ischemia using a targeted near-infrared fluorophore. PLoS One 2014; 9:e103721. [PMID: 25072508 PMCID: PMC4114964 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 07/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are an essential component of the immune system and have protective and pathogenic functions in various diseases. Imaging of macrophages in vivo could furnish new tools to advance evaluation of disease and therapies. Critical limb ischemia is a disease in which macrophages have considerable pathogenic roles, and are potential targets for cell-based immunotherapy. We sought to develop a new near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging probe to target macrophages specifically in vivo in various pathological states, including hind-limb ischemia. We rapidly screened the photostable cyanine-based NIRF library against different blood cell lines. The identified monocyte/macrophage-selective hit was tested in vitro in live-cell labeling assay. Non-invasive NIRF imaging was performed with murine models of paw inflammation by lipopolysaccharide challenge and hind-limb ischemia with femoral artery ligation. in vivo macrophage targeting was further evaluated using intravital microscopy with Csf1r-EGFP transgenic mice and immunofluorescent staining with macrophage-specific markers. We discovered MF800, a Macrophage-specific near-infrared Fluorophore, which showed selective live-cell imaging performance in a panel of cell lines and primary human blood samples. MF800 outperforms the clinically-available NIRF contrast agent ICG for in vivo specificity in paw inflammation and hind-limb ischemia models. We observed a marked overlap of MF800-labeled cells and EGFP-expressing macrophages in intravital imaging of Csf1r-EGFP transgenic mice. In the histologic analysis, MF800-positive cells also expressed the macrophage markers CD68 and CD169. NIRF imaging showcased the potential of using MF800 to understand macrophage behavior in vivo, characterize macrophage-associated diseases, and may help in assessing therapeutic responses in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Sun Yoo
- Smart Humanity Convergence Center, Department of Transdisciplinary Studies, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Raj Kumar Das
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Zhi Yen Jow
- Laboratory of Bioimaging Probe Development, Singapore Bioimaging Consortium, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Young-Tae Chang
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Laboratory of Bioimaging Probe Development, Singapore Bioimaging Consortium, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore, Singapore
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21
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Kim YI, Phi JH, Paeng JC, Choi H, Kim SK, Lee YS, Kang KW, Lee JY, Jeong JM, Chung JK, Lee DS, Wang KC. In vivo evaluation of angiogenic activity and its correlation with efficacy of indirect revascularization surgery in pediatric moyamoya disease. J Nucl Med 2014; 55:1467-72. [PMID: 25060195 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.114.142430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Indirect revascularization is the most widely used treatment to induce angiogenesis in pediatric moyamoya disease (MMD). Molecular imaging methods targeted for angiogenesis have recently been developed. We performed angiogenesis imaging in indirect revascularization surgery for MMD to evaluate angiogenic activity and its correlation with treatment efficacy. METHODS Twelve patients with pediatric MMD were prospectively enrolled. Encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis surgery was conducted, and (68)Ga-Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) PET was performed 3.7 ± 1.0 mo after surgery. Basal perfusion and stress perfusion (PStr) in the middle cerebral artery territory were evaluated by acetazolamide-stress brain perfusion SPECT using statistical probabilistic anatomic mapping, at preoperative, early postoperative, and long-term follow-up states. Angiogenic activity was assessed on the images in terms of maximal uptake ratio, volume of increased uptake, and uptake-volume product. RESULTS Basal perfusion and PStr were significantly improved after surgery. Increased angiogenic activity was observed in the revascularized area, mainly around the bony flap. Angiogenic activity gradually decreased with time and significantly correlated with the postoperative time interval (P = 0.0015 for maximal uptake ratio and 0.0069 for volume of increased uptake). It was estimated to normalize at 6.3 mo after surgery. Uptake-volume product was inversely correlated with PStr improvement at the early postoperative state (r = -0.5960, P = 0.0409) and also weakly correlated with PStr improvement at long-term follow-up (r = -0.5010, P = 0.1165). CONCLUSION Angiogenesis PET imaging with (68)Ga-RGD was successfully used for the assessment of angiogenic activity in indirect revascularization surgery for MMD, and angiogenic activation measured at approximately 3.7 mo after surgery was inversely correlated with perfusion improvement. The assessment of angiogenic activity using (68)Ga-RGD PET is expected to be effective for evaluating the mechanism or efficacy of revascularization treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-il Kim
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea; and
| | - Ji Hoon Phi
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Chul Paeng
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hongyoon Choi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung-Ki Kim
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yun-Sang Lee
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Keon Wook Kang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Yeoun Lee
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Min Jeong
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea; and
| | - June-Key Chung
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea; and
| | - Dong Soo Lee
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyu-Chang Wang
- Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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22
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Su H, Gorodny N, Gomez LF, Gangadharmath UB, Mu F, Chen G, Walsh JC, Szardenings K, Berman DS, Kolb HC, Tamarappoo BK. Atherosclerotic plaque uptake of a novel integrin tracer ¹⁸F-Flotegatide in a mouse model of atherosclerosis. J Nucl Cardiol 2014; 21:553-62. [PMID: 24627345 PMCID: PMC4316660 DOI: 10.1007/s12350-014-9879-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rupture of unstable atherosclerotic plaque that leads to stroke and myocardial infarction may be induced by macrophage infiltration and neovessel formation. A tracer that selectively binds to integrin αvβ3 a protein expressed by macrophages and neovascular endothelium may identify rupture prone plaque. METHODS (18)F-labeled "R-G-D" containing tripeptide (Flotegatide), a click chemistry derived radiotracer that binds to integrin αvβ3 was injected in ApoE knockout mice fed a high fat diet. Uptake of Flotegatide by atherosclerotic plaque was visualized by micro-PET, autoradiography, and correlated to histologic markers of inflammation and angiogenesis. RESULTS We found that Flotegatide preferentially binds to aortic plaque in an ApoE knockout mouse model of atherosclerosis. The tracer's uptake is strongly associated with presence of histologic markers for macrophage infiltration and integrin expression. There is a weaker but detectable association between Flotegatide uptake and presence of an immunohistochemical marker for neovascularization. DISCUSSION We hypothesize that Flotegatide may be a useful tracer for visualization of inflamed plaque in clinical subjects with atherosclerosis and may have potential for detecting vulnerable plaque.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Su
- Siemens Molecular Imaging, 6140 Bristol Parkway, Culver City, CA, USA
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23
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Li B, Berti R, Abran M, Lesage F. Ultrasound guided fluorescence molecular tomography with improved quantification by an attenuation compensated Born-normalization and in vivo preclinical study of cancer. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2014; 85:053703. [PMID: 24880378 DOI: 10.1063/1.4875256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Ultrasound imaging, having the advantages of low-cost and non-invasiveness over MRI and X-ray CT, was reported by several studies as an adequate complement to fluorescence molecular tomography with the perspective of improving localization and quantification of fluorescent molecular targets in vivo. Based on the previous work, an improved dual-modality Fluorescence-Ultrasound imaging system was developed and then validated in imaging study with preclinical tumor model. Ultrasound imaging and a profilometer were used to obtain the anatomical prior information and 3D surface, separately, to precisely extract the tissue boundary on both sides of sample in order to achieve improved fluorescence reconstruction. Furthermore, a pattern-based fluorescence reconstruction on the detection side was incorporated to enable dimensional reduction of the dataset while keeping the useful information for reconstruction. Due to its putative role in the current imaging geometry and the chosen reconstruction technique, we developed an attenuation compensated Born-normalization method to reduce the attenuation effects and cancel off experimental factors when collecting quantitative fluorescence datasets over large area. Results of both simulation and phantom study demonstrated that fluorescent targets could be recovered accurately and quantitatively using this reconstruction mechanism. Finally, in vivo experiment confirms that the imaging system associated with the proposed image reconstruction approach was able to extract both functional and anatomical information, thereby improving quantification and localization of molecular targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoqiang Li
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3A7, Canada
| | - Romain Berti
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3A7, Canada
| | - Maxime Abran
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3A7, Canada
| | - Frédéric Lesage
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3A7, Canada
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24
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Beer AJ, Pelisek J, Heider P, Saraste A, Reeps C, Metz S, Seidl S, Kessler H, Wester HJ, Eckstein HH, Schwaiger M. PET/CT imaging of integrin αvβ3 expression in human carotid atherosclerosis. JACC Cardiovasc Imaging 2014; 7:178-87. [PMID: 24412187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmg.2013.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The goal of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of [(18)F]Galacto-RGD positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) imaging of αvβ3 expression in human carotid plaques. BACKGROUND The integrin αvβ3 is expressed by macrophages and angiogenic endothelial cells in atherosclerotic lesions and thus is a marker of plaque inflammation and, potentially, of plaque vulnerability. [(18)F]Galacto-RGD is a PET tracer binding specifically to αvβ3. Therefore, [(18)F]Galacto-RGD PET/CT imaging of αvβ3 expression in human carotid plaques might provide a novel noninvasive biomarker of plaque vulnerability. METHODS [(18)F]Galacto-RGD PET/CT imaging was performed in 10 patients with high-grade carotid artery stenosis scheduled for carotid endarterectomy. Tracer uptake was measured in the stenotic areas of the carotid arteries, as well as on the contralateral side, and was corrected for blood pool activity, measured in the distal common carotid artery (target-to-background [TB] ratio). TB ratio was correlated with immunohistochemistry of αvβ3 expression (LM609), macrophage density (CD68), and microvessel density (CD31) of the surgical specimen. In addition, ex vivo autoradiography of the surgical specimen with [(18)F]Galacto-RGD and competition experiments with an unlabeled αvβ3-specific RGD peptide were performed. RESULTS [(18)F]Galacto-RGD PET/CT showed significantly higher TB ratios in stenotic areas compared with nonstenotic areas (p = 0.01). TB ratios correlated significantly with αvβ3 expression (R = 0.787, p = 0.026) and intensity of ex vivo autoradiography (R = 0.733, p = 0.038). Binding to atherosclerotic plaques was efficiently blocked in ex vivo competition experiments. A weak-to-moderate correlation was found with macrophage density (R = 0.367, p = 0.299) and microvessel density (R = 0.479, p = 0.176), which did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS [(18)F]Galacto-RGD PET/CT shows specific tracer accumulation in human atherosclerotic carotid plaques, which correlates with αvβ3 expression. Based on these initial data, larger prospective studies are now warranted to evaluate the potential of molecular imaging of αvβ3 expression for assessment of plaque inflammation in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambros J Beer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
| | - Jaroslav Pelisek
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Heider
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Antti Saraste
- Turku PET Centre and Department of Cardiology, Turku, Finland
| | - Christian Reeps
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Stephan Metz
- Department of Radiology, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan Seidl
- Department of Pathology, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Horst Kessler
- Institute for Advanced Study and Center of Integrated Protein Science, Technische Universität München, Department Chemie, Garching, Germany; Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hans-Jürgen Wester
- Chair of Pharmaceutical Radiochemistry, Technische Universität München, Garching, Germany
| | | | - Markus Schwaiger
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
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Vázquez-Romero A, Kielland N, Arévalo MJ, Preciado S, Mellanby RJ, Feng Y, Lavilla R, Vendrell M. Multicomponent reactions for de novo synthesis of BODIPY probes: in vivo imaging of phagocytic macrophages. J Am Chem Soc 2013; 135:16018-21. [PMID: 24111937 DOI: 10.1021/ja408093p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Multicomponent reactions are excellent tools to generate complex structures with broad chemical diversity and fluorescent properties. Herein we describe the adaptation of the fluorescent BODIPY scaffold to multicomponent reaction chemistry with the synthesis of BODIPY adducts with high fluorescence quantum yields and good cell permeability. From this library we identified one BODIPY derivative (PhagoGreen) as a low-pH sensing fluorescent probe that enabled imaging of phagosomal acidification in activated macrophages. The fluorescence emission of PhagoGreen was proportional to the degree of activation of macrophages and could be specifically blocked by bafilomycin A, an inhibitor of phagosomal acidification. PhagoGreen does not impair the normal functions of macrophages and can be used to image phagocytic macrophages in vivo.
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26
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Feasibility and kinetic characteristics of 68Ga-NOTA-RGD PET for in vivo atherosclerosis imaging. Ann Nucl Med 2013; 27:847-54. [DOI: 10.1007/s12149-013-0757-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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27
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Neesse A, Hahnenkamp A, Griesmann H, Buchholz M, Hahn SA, Maghnouj A, Fendrich V, Ring J, Sipos B, Tuveson DA, Bremer C, Gress TM, Michl P. Claudin-4-targeted optical imaging detects pancreatic cancer and its precursor lesions. Gut 2013; 62:1034-43. [PMID: 22677720 DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2012-302577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Novel imaging methods based on specific molecular targets to detect both established neoplasms and their precursor lesions are highly desirable in cancer medicine. Previously, we identified claudin-4, an integral constituent of tight junctions, as highly expressed in various gastrointestinal tumours including pancreatic cancer. Here, we investigate the potential of targeting claudin-4 with a naturally occurring ligand to visualise pancreatic cancer and its precursor lesions in vitro and in vivo by near-infrared imaging approaches. DESIGN A non-toxic C-terminal fragment of the claudin-4 ligand Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (C-CPE) was labelled with a cyanine dye (Cy5.5). Binding of the optical tracer was analysed on claudin-4 positive and negative cells in vitro, and tumour xenografts in vivo. In addition, two genetically engineered mouse models for pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) and pancreatic cancer were used for in vivo validation. Optical imaging studies were conducted using 2D planar fluorescence reflectance imaging (FRI) technology and 3D fluorescence-mediated tomography (FMT). RESULTS In vitro, the peptide-dye conjugate showed high binding affinity to claudin-4 positive CAPAN1 cells, while claudin-4 negative HT1080 cells revealed little or no fluorescence. In vivo, claudin-4 positive tumour xenografts, endogenous pancreatic tumours, hepatic metastases, as well as preinvasive PanIN lesions, were visualised by FRI and FMT up to 48 h after injection showing a significantly higher average of fluorochrome concentration as compared with claudin-4 negative xenografts and normal pancreatic tissue. CONCLUSIONS C-CPE-Cy5.5 combined with novel optical imaging methods enables non-invasive visualisation of claudin-4 positive murine pancreatic tumours and their precursor lesions, representing a promising modality for early diagnostic imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albrecht Neesse
- Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Choi H, Phi JH, Paeng JC, Kim SK, Lee YS, Jeong JM, Chung JK, Lee DS, Wang KC. Imaging of Integrin α
v
β
3
Expression Using
68
Ga-RGD Positron Emission Tomography in Pediatric Cerebral Infarct. Mol Imaging 2013. [DOI: 10.2310/7290.2012.00036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hongyoon Choi
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji Hoon Phi
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Chul Paeng
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung-Ki Kim
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yun-Sang Lee
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jae Min Jeong
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - June-Key Chung
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Soo Lee
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyu-Chang Wang
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Kitagawa T, Kosuge H, Uchida M, Dua MM, Iida Y, Dalman RL, Douglas T, McConnell MV. RGD-conjugated human ferritin nanoparticles for imaging vascular inflammation and angiogenesis in experimental carotid and aortic disease. Mol Imaging Biol 2012; 14:315-24. [PMID: 21638084 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-011-0495-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Inflammation and angiogenesis are important contributors to vascular disease. We evaluated imaging both of these biological processes, using Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD)-conjugated human ferritin nanoparticles (HFn), in experimental carotid and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) disease. PROCEDURES Macrophage-rich carotid lesions were induced by ligation in hyperlipidemic and diabetic FVB mice (n = 16). AAAs were induced by angiotensin II infusion in apoE(-/-) mice (n=10). HFn, with or without RGD peptide, was labeled with Cy5.5 and injected intravenously for near-infrared fluorescence imaging. RESULTS RGD-HFn showed significantly higher signal than HFn in diseased carotids and AAAs relative to non-diseased regions, both in situ (carotid: 1.88 ± 0.30 vs. 1.17 ± 0.10, p = 0.04; AAA: 2.59 ± 0.24 vs. 1.82 ± 0.16, p = 0.03) and ex vivo. Histology showed RGD-HFn colocalized with macrophages in carotids and both macrophages and neoangiogenesis in AAA lesions. CONCLUSIONS RGD-HFn enhances vascular molecular imaging by targeting both vascular inflammation and angiogenesis, and allows more comprehensive detection of high-risk atherosclerotic and aneurysmal vascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiro Kitagawa
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305-5233, USA
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Quantitative Longitudinal Imaging of Vascular Inflammation and Treatment by Ezetimibe in apoE Mice by FMT Using New Optical Imaging Biomarkers of Cathepsin Activity and α(v)β(3) Integrin. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR IMAGING 2012; 2012:189254. [PMID: 23119157 PMCID: PMC3483711 DOI: 10.1155/2012/189254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2012] [Accepted: 09/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation as a core pathological event of atherosclerotic lesions is associated with the secretion of cathepsin proteases and the expression of αvβ3 integrin. We employed fluorescence molecular tomographic (FMT) noninvasive imaging of these molecular activities using cathepsin sensing (ProSense, CatB FAST) and αvβ3 integrin (IntegriSense) near-infrared fluorescence (NIRF) agents. A statistically significant increase in the ProSense and IntegriSense signal was observed within the chest region of apoE−/− mice (P < 0.05) versus C57BL/6 mice starting 25 and 22 weeks on high cholesterol diet, respectively. In a treatment study using ezetimibe (7 mg/kg), there was a statistically significant reduction in the ProSense and CatB FAST chest signal of treated (P < 0.05) versus untreated apoE−/− mice at 31 and 21 weeks on high cholesterol diet, respectively. The signal of ProSense and CatB FAST correlated with macrophage counts and was found associated with inflammatory cells by fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry of cells dissociated from aortas. This report demonstrates that cathepsin and αvβ3 integrin NIRF agents can be used as molecular imaging biomarkers for longitudinal detection of atherosclerosis, and cathepsin agents can monitor anti-inflammatory effects of ezetimibe with applications in preclinical testing of therapeutics and potentially for early diagnosis of atherosclerosis in patients.
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Saraste A, Laitinen I, Weidl E, Wildgruber M, Weber AW, Nekolla SG, Hölzlwimmer G, Esposito I, Walch A, Leppänen P, Lisinen I, Luppa PB, Ylä-Herttuala S, Wester HJ, Knuuti J, Schwaiger M. Diet intervention reduces uptake of αvβ3 integrin-targeted PET tracer 18F-galacto-RGD in mouse atherosclerotic plaques. J Nucl Cardiol 2012; 19:775-84. [PMID: 22527796 DOI: 10.1007/s12350-012-9554-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2011] [Accepted: 03/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Expression of α(v)β(3) integrin has been proposed as a marker for atherosclerotic lesion inflammation. We studied whether diet intervention reduces uptake of α(v)β(3) integrin-targeted positron emission tomography tracer (18)F-galacto-RGD in mouse atherosclerotic plaques. METHODS AND RESULTS Hypercholesterolemic LDLR(-/-) ApoB(100/100) mice on high-fat diet for 4 months were randomized to further 3 months on high-fat diet (high-fat group, n = 8) or regular mouse chow (intervention group, n = 7). Intima-media ratio describing plaque burden was comparable between intervention and high-fat groups (2.0 ± 0.5 vs 2.3 ± 0.8, P = .5). Uptake of (18)F-galacto-RGD in the aorta was lower in the intervention than high-fat group (%ID/g 0.16 vs 0.23, P < .01). Autoradiography showed 35% lower uptake of (18)F-galacto-RGD in the atherosclerotic plaques in the intervention than high-fat group (P = .007). Uptake of (18)F-galacto-RGD in plaques correlated with uptake of (3)H-deoxyglucose and nuclear density, which was lower in the intervention than high-fat group (P = .01). Flow cytometry demonstrated macrophages expressing α(v) and β(3) integrins in the aorta. CONCLUSIONS Uptake of (18)F-galacto-RGD in mouse atherosclerotic lesions was reduced by lipid-lowering diet intervention. Expression of α(v)β(3) integrin is a potential target for evaluation of therapy response in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antti Saraste
- Nuklearmedizinische Klinik und Poliklinik, Nuklearmedizinische Klinik der TU München, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str 22, 81675 Munich, Germany
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Yao Y, Jiang Y, Sheng Z, Zhang Y, An Y, Yan F, Ma G, Liu N, Teng G, Cheng Z. Analysis of in situ and ex vivo αVβ3 integrin expression during experimental carotid atherogenesis. Int J Nanomedicine 2012; 7:641-9. [PMID: 22334786 PMCID: PMC3278228 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s28065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mural inflammation has been shown to contribute to the development of plaque, with the α(V)β(3) integrin highly expressed in atherosclerotic plaques. We herein examined α(V)β(3) integrin expression as a function of carotid atherosclerosis formation in the apolipoprotein E-deficient (apoE(-/-)) mouse. METHODS AND RESULTS Constrictive collars were placed around the left common carotid arteries of apo E(-/-) mice maintained on a high-fat diet (n = 14). Before and 21 days following collar placement, in vivo serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements of the carotid aortic diameter were performed using a 7T magnetic resonance (MR) scanner. Near- infrared fluorescence (NIRF) imaging was performed (n = 6) using an in vivo imaging system 0-24 hours following administration of 1.0 nmol c(RGDyK)-Cy5.5 via the tail vein. A competition experiment was performed by the co-injection of a saturating dose of bicyclic RGD peptide H-Glu[cyclo(Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Tyr-Lys)]2 (n = 3). Following image acquisition and sacrifice at 24 hours after injection, carotid arteries were harvested for histological analyses. Neointima formation and arterial remodeling in the carotid arteries of apoE(-/-) mice were induced by the placement of a constrictive collar. Significantly greater fluorescent signals were obtained from constrictive collar left common carotid arteries as compared to uninvolved aortic segments in constrictive collar mice. Binding to stenotic lesions was efficiently blocked in competition experiments. Immunostaining confirmed the presence of mural α(V)β(3) integrin expression in macrophages in the neointima. Signal intensity increased in a macrophage density-dependent fashion in the stenotic segments. CONCLUSION Mural α(V)β(3) integrin expression, as determined using RGD-Cy5.5 near-infrared optical imaging, was increased in carotid arteries with constrictive collars in experimental mice. This expression can estimate the macrophage-bound inflammatory activity of atherosclerotic lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyu Yao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
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Razavian M, Marfatia R, Mongue-Din H, Tavakoli S, Sinusas AJ, Zhang J, Nie L, Sadeghi MM. Integrin-targeted imaging of inflammation in vascular remodeling. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2011; 31:2820-6. [PMID: 21940943 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.111.231654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Inflammation plays a key role in the development of vascular diseases. Monocytes and macrophages express α(v)β(3) integrin. We used an α(v) integrin-specific tracer, (99m)Tc-NC100692, to investigate integrin-targeted imaging for detection vessel wall inflammation. METHODS AND RESULTS The binding of a fluorescent homologue of NC100692 to α(v)β(3) on human monocytes and macrophages was shown by flow cytometry. Vessel wall inflammation and remodeling was induced in murine carotid arteries through adventitial exposure to CaCl(2). NC100692 micro single photon computed tomography/CT imaging was performed after 2 and 4 weeks and showed significantly higher uptake of the tracer in CaCl(2)-exposed left carotids compared with sham-operated contralateral arteries. Histological analysis at 4 weeks demonstrated significant remodeling of left carotid arteries and considerable macrophage infiltration, which was confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. There was no significant difference in normalized α(v), β(3), or β(5) mRNA expression between right and left carotid arteries. Finally, NC100692 uptake strongly correlated with macrophage marker expression in carotid arteries. CONCLUSIONS NC100692 imaging can detect vessel wall inflammation in vivo. If further validated, α(v)-targeted imaging may provide a noninvasive approach for identifying patients who are at high risk for vascular events and tracking the effect of antiinflammatory treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Razavian
- Cardiovascular Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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Zhou Y, Chakraborty S, Liu S. Radiolabeled Cyclic RGD Peptides as Radiotracers for Imaging Tumors and Thrombosis by SPECT. Theranostics 2011; 1:58-82. [PMID: 21547153 PMCID: PMC3086616 DOI: 10.7150/thno/v01p0058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The integrin family is a group of transmembrane glycoprotein comprised of 19 α- and 8 β-subunits that are expressed in 25 different α/β heterodimeric combinations on the cell surface. Integrins play critical roles in many physiological processes, including cell attachment, proliferation, bone remodeling, and wound healing. Integrins also contribute to pathological events such as thrombosis, atherosclerosis, tumor invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis, infection by pathogenic microorganisms, and immune dysfunction. Among 25 members of the integrin family, the α(v)β(3) is studied most extensively for its role of tumor growth, progression and angiogenesis. In contrast, the α(IIb)β(3 )is expressed exclusively on platelets, facilitates the intercellular bidirectional signaling ("inside-out" and "outside-in") and allows the aggregation of platelets during vascular injury. The α(IIb)β(3) plays an important role in thrombosis by its activation and binding to fibrinogen especially in arterial thrombosis due to the high blood flow rate. In the resting state, the α(IIb)β(3) on platelets does not bind to fibrinogen; on activation, the conformation of platelet is altered and the binding sites of α(IIb)β(3 )are exposed for fibrinogen to crosslink platelets. Over the last two decades, integrins have been proposed as the molecular targets for diagnosis and therapy of cancer, thrombosis and other diseases. Several excellent review articles have appeared recently to cover a broad range of topics related to the integrin-targeted radiotracers and their nuclear medicine applications in tumor imaging by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) or a positron-emitting radionuclide for positron emission tomography (PET). This review will focus on recent developments of α(v)β(3)-targeted radiotracers for imaging tumors and the use of α(IIb)β(3)-targeted radiotracers for thrombosis imaging, and discuss different approaches to maximize the targeting capability of cyclic RGD peptides and improve the radiotracer excretion kinetics from non-cancerous organs. Improvement of target uptake and target-to-background ratios is critically important for target-specific radiotracers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shuang Liu
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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Terashima M, Uchida M, Kosuge H, Tsao PS, Young MJ, Conolly SM, Douglas T, McConnell MV. Human ferritin cages for imaging vascular macrophages. Biomaterials 2010; 32:1430-7. [PMID: 21074263 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2010.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 09/14/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of death worldwide. Macrophages are key components of vascular inflammation, which contributes to the development and complications of atherosclerosis. Ferritin, an iron storage and transport protein, has been found to accumulate in macrophages in human atherosclerotic plaques. We hypothesized that ferritin could serve as an intrinsic nano-platform to target delivery of imaging agents to vascular macrophages to detect high-risk atherosclerotic plaques. Here we show that engineered human ferritin protein cages, either conjugated to the fluorescent Cy5.5 molecule or encapsulating a magnetite nanoparticle, are taken up in vivo by macrophages in murine atherosclerotic carotid arteries and can be imaged by fluorescence and magnetic resonance imaging. These results indicate that human ferritin can serve as a nanoparticle platform to image vascular inflammation in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Terashima
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305-5233, USA
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Lee S, Xie J, Chen X. Peptides and peptide hormones for molecular imaging and disease diagnosis. Chem Rev 2010; 110:3087-111. [PMID: 20225899 DOI: 10.1021/cr900361p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Seulki Lee
- Laboratory of Molecular Imaging and Nanomedicine, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, National Institutes of Health, 31 Center Drive, Suite 1C14, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-2281, USA
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Emerging Molecular Targets for Intravascular Imaging of High-Risk Plaques. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR IMAGING REPORTS 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s12410-010-9028-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Liu S. Radiolabeled cyclic RGD peptides as integrin alpha(v)beta(3)-targeted radiotracers: maximizing binding affinity via bivalency. Bioconjug Chem 2010; 20:2199-213. [PMID: 19719118 DOI: 10.1021/bc900167c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 273] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Integrin alpha(v)beta(3) plays a significant role in tumor angiogenesis and is a receptor for the extracellular matrix proteins with the exposed arginine-glycine-aspartic (RGD) tripeptide sequence. These include vitronectin, fibronectin, fibrinogen, lamin, collagen, Von Willibrand's factor, osteoponin, and adenovirus particles. Integrin alpha(v)beta(3) is expressed at low levels on epithelial cells and mature endothelial cells, but it is overexpressed on the activated endothelial cells of tumor neovasculature and some tumor cells. The restricted expression of integrin alpha(v)beta(3) during tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis presents an interesting molecular target for both early detection and treatment of rapidly growing solid tumors. Over the past decade, many radiolabeled linear and cyclic RGD peptide antagonists have been evaluated as integrin alpha(v)beta(3)-targeted radiotracers. Significant progress has been made on their use for imaging integrin alpha(v)beta(3)-positive tumors by SPECT or PET. Among the radiotracers evaluated in preclinical tumor-bearing models, [18F]Galacto-RGD (2-[18F]fluoropropanamide c(RGDfK(SAA); SAA = 7-amino-L-glyero-L-galacto-2,6-anhydro-7-deoxyheptanamide) and [18F]-AH111585 are currently under clinical investigation for visualization of integrin alpha(v)beta(3) expression in cancer patients. However, their low tumor uptake, high cost, and lack of preparative modules for routine radiosynthesis will limit their continued clinical application. Thus, there is a continuing need for more efficient integrin alpha(v)beta(3)-targeted radiotracers that are readily prepared from a kit formulation without further postlabeling purification. This article will focus on different approaches to maximize the targeting capability of cyclic RGD peptides and to improve the radiotracer excretion kinetics from noncancerous organs. Improvement of tumor uptake and tumor-to-background ratios is important for early detection of integrin alpha(v)beta(3)-positive tumors and/or noninvasive monitoring of therapeutic efficacy of antiangiogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liu
- School of Health Sciences, Purdue University, 550 Stadium Mall Drive, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, USA.
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Heroux J, Gharib AM, Danthi NS, Cecchini S, Ohayon J, Pettigrew RI. High-affinity alphavbeta3 integrin targeted optical probe as a new imaging biomarker for early atherosclerosis: initial studies in Watanabe rabbits. Mol Imaging Biol 2010; 12:2-8. [PMID: 19898904 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-009-0242-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2008] [Revised: 02/17/2009] [Accepted: 03/03/2009] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE A newly developed synthetic alpha v beta 3 integrin targeted optical probe (ITOP) has been demonstrated to target cancer cells, in vivo. Compared to the commercially available cyclic peptide c[RGDfv], this optical probe has at least 20 times better binding affinity for the alpha v beta 3 receptor. The present in vitro study was designed to investigate the possibility of detecting early atherosclerotic plaque by using this ITOP. PROCEDURES Experiments were performed on five Watanabe heritable hyperlipidemic rabbits and two New Zealand White rabbits for control. Our ITOP was used for detecting the presence of alpha v beta 3 receptors in vitro. RESULTS Segments of plaque accumulation from two distinct regions of ascending and descending aortas were labeled in Watanabe rabbits. The signal was found principally in the adventitia and proximal intima of the aortic vessel, corresponding directly to the expression of integrin alpha v beta 3 as determined by antibody assay. Moreover, there was a close association between the level of labeling with the alpha v beta 3 targeted probe and the thickness of the adventitia. CONCLUSIONS This high-affinity ITOP identifies the site and extent of alpha v beta 3 expression and correlates with adventitial thickness. Recent evidence associates alpha v beta 3 expression with the inflammatory process in early vulnerable plaque, making this compound a promising potential biomarker for early atherosclerotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Heroux
- Laboratory of Integrative Cardiovascular Imaging Science, National Institute of Diabetes Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Abstract
Current imaging techniques focus on evaluating the anatomical structure of blood vessel wall and atherosclerotic plaque. These techniques fail to evaluate the biological processes which take place in the vessel wall and inside the plaque. Novel imaging techniques like optical imaging can evaluate the biological and cellular processes inside the plaque and provide information which can be vital for better patient risk stratification. This review highlights the various optical imaging techniques and their application in assessing biological processes in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharath Subramanian
- Cardiac MR-PET-CT Program, Massachusetts General Hospital, 165 Cambridge Street, Suite 400, Boston, MA 02114, USA
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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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Laitinen I, Saraste A, Weidl E, Poethko T, Weber AW, Nekolla SG, Leppänen P, Ylä-Herttuala S, Hölzlwimmer G, Walch A, Esposito I, Wester HJ, Knuuti J, Schwaiger M. Evaluation of alphavbeta3 integrin-targeted positron emission tomography tracer 18F-galacto-RGD for imaging of vascular inflammation in atherosclerotic mice. Circ Cardiovasc Imaging 2009; 2:331-8. [PMID: 19808614 DOI: 10.1161/circimaging.108.846865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND (18)F-Galacto-RGD is a positron emission tomography (PET) tracer binding to alpha(v)beta(3) integrin that is expressed by macrophages and endothelial cells in atherosclerotic lesions. Therefore, we evaluated (18)F-galacto-RGD for imaging vascular inflammation by studying its uptake into atherosclerotic lesions of hypercholesterolemic mice in comparison to deoxyglucose. METHODS AND RESULTS Hypercholesterolemic LDLR(-/-)ApoB(100/100) mice on a Western diet and normally fed adult C57BL/6 control mice were injected with (18)F-galacto-RGD and (3)H-deoxyglucose followed by imaging with a small animal PET/CT scanner. The aorta was dissected 2 hours after tracer injection for biodistribution studies, autoradiography, and histology. Biodistribution of (18)F-galacto-RGD was higher in the atherosclerotic than in the normal aorta. Autoradiography demonstrated focal (18)F-galacto-RGD uptake in the atherosclerotic plaques when compared with the adjacent normal vessel wall or adventitia. Plaque-to-normal vessel wall ratios were comparable to those of deoxyglucose. Although angiogenesis was not detected, (18)F-galacto-RGD uptake was associated with macrophage density and deoxyglucose accumulation in the plaques. Binding to atherosclerotic lesions was efficiently blocked in competition experiments. In vivo imaging visualized (18)F-galacto-RGD uptake colocalizing with calcified lesions of the aortic arch as seen in CT angiography. CONCLUSIONS (18)F-Galacto-RGD demonstrates specific uptake in atherosclerotic lesions of mouse aorta. In this model, its uptake was associated with macrophage density. (18)F-Galacto-RGD is a potential tracer for noninvasive imaging of inflammation in atherosclerotic lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iina Laitinen
- Nuklearmedizinische Klinik der TU Muenchen, Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Munich, Germany
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Jaffer FA, Libby P, Weissleder R. Optical and multimodality molecular imaging: insights into atherosclerosis. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2009; 29:1017-24. [PMID: 19359659 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.108.165530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Imaging approaches that visualize molecular targets rather than anatomic structures aim to illuminate vital molecular and cellular aspects of atherosclerosis biology in vivo. Several such molecular imaging strategies stand ready for rapid clinical application. This review describes the growing role of in vivo optical molecular imaging in atherosclerosis and highlights its ability to visualize atheroma inflammation, calcification, and angiogenesis. In addition, we discuss advances in multimodality probes, both in the context of multimodal imaging as well as multifunctional, or "theranostic," nanoparticles. This review highlights particular molecular imaging strategies that possess strong potential for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farouc A Jaffer
- Cardiovascular Research Center and Cardiology Division, Center for Molecular Imaging Research, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Mass., USA.
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