Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as Contrast Agents in Molecular Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Molecular magnetic resonance imaging has recently emerged as a powerful tool for the detection and assessment of cardiovascular diseases. Contrast agents have an important role in this novel modality because molecular imaging requires highly sensitive, specific, and efficient imaging agents. Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONs) are a new class of contrast agents with unique properties that provide special opportunities in cardiovascular molecular imaging. IONs are captured by macrophages and can be successfully used in the detection and evaluation of atherosclerotic plaques, abdominal aortic aneurysms, and inflammations related to myocardial infarction. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief description of the basic characteristics of IONs, with a special focus on their role as molecular magnetic resonance imaging contrast agents and their cardiovascular applications.