Gadofosveset Monitors the Effects of Different Interventions on Endothelial Permeability and Plaque Progression

Alkystis Phinikaridou¹, Marcelo E. Andia, Rene M. Botnar

Studies have demonstrated that endothelial dysfunction precedes and promotes atherosclerosis development because of increased endothelial permeability, circulating lipoproteins, inflammatory cells and molecules. We have previously shown that contrast enhanced MRI using gadofosveset, an albumin binding gadolinium contrast agent, can detect endothelial damage associated with atherosclerotic plaque formation and progression in high-fat fed apoE -/- mice. In this study, we explored whether imaging with gadofosveset could be used to monitor the effects of different interventions on endothelial permeability and plaque progression.