Abstract #3515

Ko I, Kang H

Detecting molecules expressed on activated macrophage is a challenging task relevant for atherosclerosis imaging. To detect specific MR signal sensitivity at early stage of atherosclerosis, novel imaging probes were developed for potential targeting macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques. We focused on a nanosized carrier of paramagnetic contrast agents, specific immuno-biomarker with potential multi-modality applications. Biocompatible nano-sized micelles were synthesized using a combination of a lipophilic Gd-DTPA, near-infrared fluorochrome and anti-VEGFR antibody. These probes were highly expressed on activated J744A.1 cells with liposaccharide and the expression was detectible by both MRI and optical imaging. Our research suggests that new multi-modal imaging probes could be further applied for visualization of atherosclerotic plaques in vivo.