Optical molecular imaging technology in genetically engineered mouse models

Abstract

Optical molecular imaging technology has been rapidly developed to non-invasively,quantitatively and dynamically monitor the in vivo biological processes in real time.It is widely used in various fields of biomedicine and life sciences with advantages like easy operation,real-time study,high sensitivity and low cost image equipment.In recent years,the generation of transgenic animal models in combination with optical molecular imaging reporter genes has greatly facilitated the development of the imaging technology and expanded its application.In this article,we review the research progress by optical molecular imaging in genetically engineered mice (GEM) for 1) investigating tumorigenesis,growth or metastasis,2) monitoring cell cycle,cell proliferation,apoptosis or angiogenesis,3) evaluating the inflammation process and 4) providing a modality for pharmaceutical development. Key words: Optical molecular imaging technology; Mice; transgenic; Animals; laborator