In vivo visualization of macrophage infiltration and activity in inflammation using magnetic resonance imaging.
Because macrophages play a key role on host defense, visualization of the migration of these cells is of high relevance for both diagnostic purposes and the evaluation of therapeutic interventions. The present article addresses the use of iron oxide and gadolinium-based particles for the noninvasive in vivo detection of macrophage infiltration into inflamed areas by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A general introduction on the functions and general characteristics of macrophages is followed by a discussion of some of the agents and acquisition schemes currently used to track the cells in vivo. Attention is then devoted to preclinical and clinical applications in the following disease areas: atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction, stroke, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and kidney transplantation.
Beckmann
Nicolau
N
Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Basel, Switzerland.
Cannet
Catherine
C
Babin
Anna Louise
AL
Blé
François-Xavier
FX
Zurbruegg
Stefan
S
Kneuer
Rainer
R
Dousset
Vincent
V
D000818:Animals; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000737:chemistry*; D006801:Humans; D007089:Image Enhancement / Q000379:methods*; D007249:Inflammation / Q000473:pathology*; D008262:Macrophage Activation; D008264:Macrophages / Q000473:pathology*; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D053758:Nanoparticles / Q000737:chemistry*
D003287:Contrast Media