Molecular Imaging Techniques Research Articles

Surgery for blood culture-negative infective endocarditis: outcomes and the role of molecular biological imaging as diagnostic approach.

The study aimed to analyze outcomes of surgery for blood culture-negative infective endocarditis (BCNIE) and to evaluate the role of molecular biological imaging. Patients undergoing surgery for native or prosthetic valve endocarditis from 2013 to 2022 were analyzed regarding blood culture-positive infective endocarditis (BCPIE) and BCNIE. For laboratory diagnostics in BCNIE, excised valves or prostheses underwent conventional microbiological culture and fluorescence in situ hybridization combined with 16S rRNA-gene polymerase chain reaction and sequencing (FISHseq). Of 521 patients overall, we identified 473 patients (342 males, mean age 63 ± 14.4 years) with preoperative blood cultures: 396 with BCPIE (83.7%) and 77 with BCNIE (16.3%).Preoperative characteristics and operative procedures were comparable between groups and the calculated perioperative risk (EuroSCORE II) was identical (BCNIE: 12.2 ± 8.8%, BCPIE: 12.9 ± 11.9%, p = 0.788). At surgery, signs of infective endocarditis were present in 71%, missing in 18%, and inconclusive in 10% of patients with BCNIE. While valve cultures alone identified pathogens in 32% of BCNIE patients, the combination with FISHseq confirmed the infective etiology in 98% and identified causative pathogens in 52%. Overall, early mortality was similar in BCNIE (16.9%) and BCPIE (18.2%, p = 0.620), but increased in 37 BCNIE patients without pathogen identification compared to 40 patients with pathogen identification (27.0% versus 7.5%, p = 0.032). Integrating FISHseq as molecular biological imaging technique into valve analysis algorithms in patients undergoing surgery for BCNIE increases diagnostic gain and potentially improves outcome.

Advancements in periodontal pathology: A systematic review and meta-analysis of molecular diagnostics, imaging techniques, regenerative therapies, and artificial intelligence

: Periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, are prevalent conditions that adversely affect the supporting structures of teeth. Recent advancements in the field of periodontal pathology have enhanced understanding of disease mechanisms and improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.: To provide a comprehensive review of current innovations in periodontal pathology and explore emerging technologies and future directions that could revolutionize periodontal care.: This review synthesizes findings from recent literature on advancements in periodontal pathology, including molecular diagnostics, imaging techniques, regenerative therapies, and the application of artificial intelligence (AI). A systematic approach was adopted to identify and analyze relevant studies, focusing on their clinical relevance and potential for transforming periodontal care.: Key advancements include: 1. Molecular Diagnostics: Improved identification of biomarkers for early detection and disease progression monitoring. 2. Imaging Techniques: Enhanced visualization of periodontal structures using advanced modalities like cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and optical coherence tomography (OCT). 3. Regenerative Therapies: Breakthroughs in tissue engineering, stem cell therapy, and biomaterials for periodontal regeneration. 4. Artificial Intelligence: Integration of AI for predictive modeling, diagnostic support, and personalized treatment planning.: Recent innovations in periodontal pathology have significantly expanded diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities. Emerging technologies, including AI and regenerative approaches, hold immense potential for future advancements. Continued research and clinical integration of these innovations are critical for enhancing periodontal care and improving patient outcomes.

PET/MRI evaluation of hepatobiliary tumors.

Positron-emission tomography magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI) has emerged as a powerful hybrid molecular imaging technique in clinical practice, overcoming initial technical challenges to provide comprehensive anatomic and metabolic information. This advanced modality combines the superior soft tissue contrast of MRI with the metabolic insights of PET, offering advantages in hepatobiliary imaging, including improved detection of small liver metastases and reduced radiation exposure. The evolution of PET/MRI technology has been marked by significant advancements, such as the development of MRI-compatible PET detectors and sophisticated motion compensation techniques. These innovations have enhanced image quality and co-registration accuracy, crucial for hepatobiliary imaging. The integration of time-of-flight capability and silicon photomultipliers has further improved spatial resolution and sensitivity. PET/MRI protocols for liver imaging typically involve a whole-body scan followed by a targeted liver examination, utilizing radiotracers like FDG and DOTATATE. This approach allows for comprehensive staging and detailed liver assessment in a single session, potentially altering management decisions in up to 30% of patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. While PET/MRI excels in characterizing various hepatobiliary lesions, including hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma, challenges remain in differentiating certain benign entities like small hemangiomas from metastases. Ongoing research and clinical experience continue to refine the role of PET/MRI in hepatobiliary imaging, promising improved diagnostic accuracy and patient care.

From photonic technologies to microfluidics-A review on the techniques which revolutionize liquid biopsy, opening a new era in cancer therapy.

Cancer therapy is one of the most researched upon medical field in the world. Non invasive technologies such as liquid biopsy are gaining more importance in cancer therapy because of their manifold advantages over traditional invasive biopsy methods. Liquid biopsy is used to analyze nucleic acids such as ctDNA, cfDNA and RNA, cellular and subcellular components such as proteins, extracellular vesicles and circulating tumor cells in various biological fluids such as blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, pleural fluid and ascites fluid for diagnosis of cancer. Liquid biopsy has a wide range of applications such as assessment of residual diseases and tumors which cannot be biopsied easily and prediction of CAR-T response and response to immune checkpoint inhibitors. It can also be used to know the efficacy of cancer drugs in a patient by analyzing multiple samples. Liquid biopsy is becoming more popular as it allows biopsy of those samples in which solid tumor biopsies are challenging or impracticable. To achieve comprehensive insight on the status of cancer in a patient, various cutting edge liquid biopsy techniques have been developed. Microfluidics and photonic technologies, along with PCR, next generation sequencing, advanced and innovative molecular and cell biology approaches and imaging techniques have expanded the domain of liquid biopsy and elevated the accuracy of liquid biopsy results. This review discusses about the contributions of some widely used methods along with microfluidics and photonic technologies in detection of cancer biomarkers by liquid biopsy.

Flexible substrate-based mass spectrometry platform for in situ non-destructive molecular imaging of living plants.

Monitoringand localizing molecules on living plants is critical for understanding their growth, development and disease. However, current techniques for molecular imaging of living plants often lack spatial information or require tedious pre-labelling. Here, we proposed a novel molecular imaging platform that combines sliver nanowire-doped Ti3C2 MXene (AgNWs@MXene) flexible film substrate with laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (AMF-LDI-MSI) to study the spatial distribution of biomolecules on the surface of living plants. This platform overcomes the MSI challenges posed by difficult-to-slice plant tissues (e.g., tough or water-rich roots and fragile flowers) and enables precisely transfer and visualize the molecule. Comparisons of the measurement results to those from matrix-assisted LDI-MSI (MALDI-MSI) technology demonstrate the accuracy and reliability of the platform. Biocompatibility evaluations indicated that the platform without observable adverse effects on the health of living plants. The distribution of growth and disease-associated signalling molecules, such as choline, organic acids and carbohydrates, can be in situ non-destructively detected on the surfaces of living plants, which is important for tracking the health of plants and their diseased areas. AMF-LDI-MSI platform can serve as a promising tool for label-free, in situ and non-destructive monitoring of functional biomolecules and plant growth from a spatial perspective.

Combined PET Radiotracer Approach Reveals Insights into Stromal Cell-Induced Metabolic Changes in Pancreatic Cancer In Vitro and In Vivo.

Background/Objective Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are producing extracellular matrix, which promotes the formation of a dense fibrotic microenvironment. This makes PDAC a highly heterogeneous tumor-stroma-driven entity, associated with reduced perfusion, limited oxygen supply, high interstitial fluid pressure, and limited bioavailability of therapeutic agents. Methods In this study, spheroid and tumor xenograft models of human PSCs and PanC-1 cells were characterized radiopharmacologically using a combined positron emission tomography (PET) radiotracer approach. [18F]FDG, [18F]FMISO, and [18F]FAPI-74 were employed to monitor metabolic activity, hypoxic metabolic state, and functional expression of fibroblast activation protein alpha (FAPα), a marker of activated PSCs. Results In vitro, PanC-1 and multi-cellular tumor spheroids demonstrated comparable glucose uptake and hypoxia, whereas FAPα expression was significantly higher in PSC spheroids. In vivo, glucose uptake as well as the transition to hypoxia were comparable in PanC-1 and multi-cellular xenograft models. In mice injected with PSCs, FAPα expression decreased over a period of four weeks post-injection, which was attributed to the successive death of PSCs. In contrast, FAPα expression increased in both PanC-1 and multi-cellular xenograft models over time due to invasion of mouse fibroblasts. Conclusion The presented models are suitable for subsequently characterizing stromal cell-induced metabolic changes in tumors using noninvasive molecular imaging techniques.

Current and Emerging Radiotracers in Molecular Cardiovascular Imaging.

Cardiovascular imaging has rapidly advanced over the past decades. Traditional imaging techniques such as echocardiography, computed tomography, and cardiovascular magnetic resonance are essential for assessing the structural and functional aspects of the cardiovascular system but often fall short in providing direct insights into disease activity. This gap is increasingly being bridged by molecular nuclear imaging techniques, including positron emission tomography and single-photon emission computed tomography, which enable the visualization of disease processes at the molecular and cellular levels. This review highlights the role of cardiovascular molecular imaging, emphasizing its current and potential applications in diagnosing and managing cardiovascular disease. With advancements in positron emission tomography scanners, novel radiotracers, and sophisticated imaging software, molecular imaging is set to play an essential role in precision medicine by enhancing our understanding of disease mechanisms, accelerating the development of targeted therapies, and facilitating personalized patient care.

Unusual familial cystic kidney disease: combining fine radiologic and genetic evaluation to solve the case

BackgroundAutosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most prevalent hereditary kidney disease, characterized by enlarged kidneys with numerous cysts, high blood pressure, and a variety of extrarenal complications. This disease is a significant cause of renal failure and requires accurate differentiation from other cystic kidney diseases, especially when family history does not clearly indicate ADPKD. This is crucial due to differences in prognosis, treatment, and familial implications. Advanced molecular genetics and imaging techniques are employed to diagnose and assess the prognosis of patients and their families.Case presentationThe case study revolves around three patients from the same family—two sisters and one daughter—referred to a nephrology department for ADPKD management. The initial proband, a 42-year-old woman, experienced abdominal discomfort leading to an ultrasound that suggested ADPKD. However, MRI findings indicated standard-sized kidneys with bilateral parapelvic cysts, and no genetic markers for ADPKD were found. Her sister, presenting with controlled hypertension and similar ultrasound findings, also had her initial ADPKD diagnosis refuted by MRI and genetic testing, which revealed no significant mutations. The daughter, however, exhibited a different scenario with enlarged kidneys and multiple cysts characteristic of early-stage ADPKD. Genetic testing confirmed a deleterious PKD1 mutation, suggesting a de novo mutation, as her father showed no signs of the disease.ConclusionThis study highlights the complexity and necessity of thorough diagnostic processes in suspected ADPKD cases to prevent misdiagnosis. The initial symptoms and imaging might misleadingly suggest ADPKD, as seen in the cases of the two older patients. Still, further detailed imaging and genetic analyses revealed no ADPKD, preventing inappropriate treatment and stress. In contrast, the younger patient's distinctive clinical and genetic profile confirmed ADPKD, illustrating the variability within even closely related individuals. Such detailed assessments are crucial in guiding correct treatment decisions and providing accurate familial counseling, emphasizing the importance of considering a broader spectrum of renal cystic disorders before confirming a diagnosis of ADPKD.

Clinical Applications and Advancements of Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography in Cardio-Oncology: A Comprehensive Literature Review and Emerging Perspectives.

Recent advancements in molecular biology, biotechnology, chemistry/radiochemistry, artificial intelligence, and imaging techniques have significantly propelled the field of cardiovascular molecular imaging. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of cardiovascular positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and cardiac computed tomography (CT), exploring their roles in elucidating molecular and cellular processes, enabling early disease detection, and guiding novel therapeutic interventions for cardiovascular conditions. Cardiovascular PET imaging strives to uncover molecular and cellular events preceding visible anatomical manifestations or physiological changes. Meanwhile, cardiac CT has evolved into a multifaceted modality, offering insights into both anatomy and function. Utilizing advanced CT technologies allows for a thorough evaluation, encompassing fractional flow reserve, perfusion imaging, pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation, atherosclerotic plaque characterization, cardiomyopathies, structural cardiac abnormalities, and congenital heart anomalies. The emergence of hybrid imaging, combining PET and CT, presents innovative prospects in cardiology. This approach enables the simultaneous assessment of cardiac perfusion and coronary anatomy in a singular scan, providing complementary insights relevant to potential coronary artery disease. Despite the substantial potential impact, operational familiarity with this hybrid tool remains limited, and its integration into routine clinical practice warrants further exploration. In summary, the review underscores the transformative impact of recent technological advancements on cardiovascular molecular imaging. The integration of PET and CT, along with their individual capabilities, holds promise for early disease detection and informed clinical decision-making. While acknowledging the potential of hybrid imaging, it emphasizes the need for increased operational familiarity and continued exploration to facilitate its seamless integration into routine clinical practice. The insights gained from this review contribute to the ongoing dialogue in the field, offering a foundation for future research and advancements in cardiovascular imaging.

Advancing Oncology through Imaging: Evaluating FDG-PET's Role in Cancer Diagnosis and Staging

Purpose: Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) represents a valuable functional molecular imaging technique. Through non-invasive means, 18F-FDG PET allows for the assessment of glucose metabolic activity in living biological systems. Its utility in oncology is well established, with applications in tumor diagnosis, staging, and treatment monitoring. The purpose of this study is to conduct a systematic review assessing the indicative value and effect on the clinical management of 18F-FDG PET/CT for various cancer types based on the current literature. Materials and Methods: An inclusive search of the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct databases was performed to identify relevant studies published from 2022 to the present. Records were screened according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A full-text review of the eligible studies was independently conducted by two reviewers. Results: Twenty-one primary research articles met the inclusion criteria and encompassed several cancer types. Evidence demonstrates superior detection, characterization, and staging compared with anatomical imaging alone. Advantages have been substantiated for head/neck, lung, and brain cancers, as well as lymphomas. The significant associations between 18F-FDG uptake and clinical features validated the molecular profiling capacity. Conclusion: 18F-FDG PET provides crucial metabolic tumor information, augmenting conventional approaches. Specific diagnostic values have been established for diverse oncological applications. While technical refinements are ongoing, 18F-FDG PET plays an expanding role in multimodal cancer algorithms according to guidelines. Continued investigation aims to further optimize these techniques and clarify their comparative effectiveness.

Voltage mapping and right ventriculography to guide ablation for arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy ventricular tachycardia: a case report

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is a family inherited cardiomyopathy associated with ventricular arrhythmias. With the development of molecular biology, histology, imaging, and other diagnostic techniques, the diagnosis rate and incidence of ARVC have gradually increased. However, ARVC remains rare in clinical practice. Currently, the diagnosis and management of ARVC is far from satisfactory in clinical practice. In the case report, we described a clinical case of radiofrequency ablation guided by voltage mapping and right ventriculography in the treatment of ARVC with ventricular tachycardia and discussed the relevant literatures.

Glutamate chemical exchange saturation transfer (GluCEST) MRI to evaluate the relationship between demyelination and glutamate content in depressed mice

Glutamatergic alteration is one of the potential mechanisms of depression. However, there is no consensus on whether glutamate metabolism changes affect the myelin structure of depression in mouse models. Glutamate chemical exchange saturation transfer (GluCEST) is a novel and powerful molecular imaging technique that can visualize glutamate distribution. In this study, we used the GluCEST imaging technique to look at glutamate levels in mice under chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) and how they relate to demyelination. The CUMS mice were exposed to different stress factors for 6 weeks. Evaluated of depression in CUMS mice by behavioral tests. MRI scans were then performed, including T2-mapping, GluCEST, and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) sequences. Brain tissues were collected for Luxol Fast Blue staining and immunofluorescence staining to analyze the changes in the myelin sheath. Artificially sketched regions of interest (ROI) (corpus callosum, hippocampus, and thalamus) were used to calculate the GluCEST value, fractional anisotropy (FA), and T2 value. Compared with the control group, the GluCEST value in the ROIs of CUMS mice significantly decreased. Similarly, the FA value in ROIs was lower in the CUMS group than in the CTRL group, but the T2 value did not differ significantly between the two groups. The histological results showed that ROIs in the CUMS group had demyelination compared with the CTRL group, indicating that DTI was more sensitive than T2 mapping in detecting myelin abnormalities. Furthermore, the GluCEST value in the ROIs correlates positively with the FA value. These findings suggest that altered glutamate metabolism may be one of the important factors leading to demyelination in depression, and GluCEST is expected to serve as an imaging biological marker for the diagnosis of demyelination in depression.

A Comprehensive Review of Cardiovascular Disease Management: Cardiac Biomarkers, Imaging Modalities, Pharmacotherapy, Surgical Interventions, and Herbal Remedies.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) continue to be a major global health concern, representing a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. This review provides a comprehensive examination of CVDs, encompassing their pathophysiology, diagnostic biomarkers, advanced imaging techniques, pharmacological treatments, surgical interventions, and the emerging role of herbal remedies. The review covers various cardiovascular conditions such as coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, peripheral artery disease, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, cardiomyopathy, rheumatic heart disease, hypertension, ischemic heart disease, heart failure, cerebrovascular diseases, and congenital heart defects. The review presents a wide range of cardiac biomarkers such as troponins, C-reactive protein, CKMB, BNP, NT-proBNP, galectin, adiponectin, IL-6, TNF-α, miRNAs, and oxylipins. Advanced molecular imaging techniques, including chest X-ray, ECG, ultrasound, CT, SPECT, PET, and MRI, have significantly enhanced our ability to visualize myocardial perfusion, plaque characterization, and cardiac function. Various synthetic drugs including statins, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, β-blockers, calcium channel blockers, antihypertensives, anticoagulants, and antiarrhythmics are fundamental in managing CVDs. Nonetheless, their side effects such as hepatic dysfunction, renal impairment, and bleeding risks necessitate careful monitoring and personalized treatment strategies. In addition to conventional therapies, herbal remedies have garnered attention for their potential cardiovascular benefits. Plant extracts and their bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, saponins, and alkaloids, offer promising cardioprotective effects and enhanced cardiovascular health. This review underscores the value of combining traditional and modern therapeutic approaches to improve cardiovascular outcomes. This review serves as a vital resource for researchers by integrating a broad spectrum of information on CVDs, diagnostic tools, imaging techniques, pharmacological treatments and their side effects, and the potential of herbal remedies.

Biodistribution of PET radiotracers in tumor-bearing TRAMP mice administered by retroorbital or jugular vein injections

Nuclear medicine is an important tool for use in molecular imaging of important biological processes. Methods for intravenous delivery of radiotracers remains a challenge, with tail vein injections demonstrated to be technically difficult and lacking in reproducibility. Other intravenous methods include jugular vein (JV) injection, which requires a more invasive and precise microsurgical technique. Although the retroorbital (RO) sinus drains directly into the JV, and RO injections are minimally invasive and simpler to perform, they remain underutilized, perhaps due to a lack of studies demonstrating their performance. This study provides a comprehensive comparison of dynamic tissue biodistribution of three categories of commonly utilized radiopharmaceuticals between JV and RO injection methods in prostate tumor-bearing mice using PET-CT imaging. Results show that JV and RO injections have equivalent dynamic tissue biodistributions across the three categories of radiopharmaceuticals used: (1) small molecule measuring tumor metabolism (18F-flurodeoxyglucose [FDG]); (2) peptide-based probe measuring angiogenesis (64Cu-NOTA-PEG4-cRGD2); and (3) dextran-based nanocarrier (64Cu-NOTA-D20). Although RO injections present with some limitations such as type of injectate and difficulty for measuring acute, dynamic pharmacokinetics, this study demonstrates that RO injections are a viable, minimally invasive or stressful, and efficient alternative intravenous delivery technique for molecular imaging.

Optical molecular imaging in cancer research: current impact and future prospect

Abstract Cancer has long been a major threat to human health. Recent advancements in molecular imaging have revolutionized cancer research by enabling early and precise disease localization, essential for effective management. In particular, optical molecular imaging is an invaluable cancer detection tool in preoperative planning, intraoperative guidance, and postoperative monitoring owing to its noninvasive nature, rapid turnover, safety, and ease of use. The tumor microenvironment and cells within it express distinct biomarkers. Optical imaging technology leverages these markers to differentiate tumor tissues from surrounding tissues and capture real-time images with high resolution. Nevertheless, a robust understanding of these cancer-related molecules and their dynamic changes is crucial for effectively managing cancer. Recent advancements in optical molecular imaging technologies offer novel approaches for cancer investigation in research and practice. This review investigates the modern optical molecular imaging techniques employed in both preclinical and clinical research, including bioluminescence, fluorescence, chemiluminescence, photoacoustic imaging, and Raman spectroscopy. We explore the current paradigm of optical molecular imaging modalities, their current status in preclinical cancer research and clinical applications, and future perspectives in the fields of cancer research and treatment.

Current status and new advancements in molecular imaging of liver cancer

Early-stage diagnosis of liver cancer is challenging, with an overall poor prognosis. The tumor microenvironment of primary liver cancer is complex, exhibiting significant heterogeneity both interpersonally and intratumorally. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to dynamically analyze biological markers in the tumor microenvironment of primary liver cancer in vivo. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the imaging diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer with the development of molecular imaging. Molecular imaging techniques utilize specific nano-imaging probes to evaluate pathological changes of liver cancer at the molecular and cellular levels in real-time. These techniques enable precise imaging to reveal key molecular biomarkers involved in the occurrence and progression of liver cancer, exploring their associations with cancer progression and outcomes. This article focuses on molecular imaging, emphasizing the current research status and latest advancements in the field of liver cancer diagnosis and therapy using techniques such as CT, MRI, optical imaging, PET imaging, and multimodal imaging. It also identifies important future directions and significant challenges for further development.

Mind Unveiled: Cutting-Edge Neuroscience and Precision Brain Mapping

Neuroscience, a dynamic field at the forefront of scientific exploration, is unravelling the complexities of the human brain. By merging biology, psychology, physics, and computer science, researchers are gaining profound insights into cognition, behaviour, and the neurological underpinnings of diseases. Brain mapping is a key component of recent advancements. Techniques like fMRI, PET, and DTI offer unprecedented views of brain structure and function. The Human Connectome Project and similar initiatives have produced detailed maps of brain connections, revealing how different regions interact to support cognition and behaviour. These maps are crucial for identifying disease biomarkers, predicting treatment responses, and developing targeted therapies. Molecular biology and genetics are also driving progress. Researchers are uncovering the genetic basis of neurological disorders, providing clues about disease susceptibility and progression. Molecular imaging techniques visualise neurotransmitter systems and cellular processes, shedding light on disease mechanisms. The integration of neuroscience with computer modelling and AI is revolutionising research. AI algorithms analyse vast datasets, simulate neural networks, and even decode neural signals for brain-machine interfaces. This has the potential for personalised medicine and ground-breaking treatments. The future holds immense promise. Techniques like optogenetics and single-cell imaging will offer even greater precision in studying brain circuits. However, we must address ethical considerations around data privacy, cognitive enhancement, and brain-altering interventions. Neuroscience is not just about understanding the brain; it's about improving lives. Researchers are striving to conquer neurological disorders and maximize human potential by pushing the boundaries of knowledge and technology while upholding ethical principles.

Modulating and Imaging Macrophage Reprogramming for Cancer Immunotherapy.

Cancer immunotherapy has made great progress in effectively attacking or eliminating cancer. However, the challenges posed by the low reactivity of some solid tumors still remain. Macrophages, as a key component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), play an important role in determining the progression of solid tumors due to their plasticity and heterogeneity. Targeting and reprogramming macrophages in TME to desired phenotypes offers an innovative and promising approach for cancer immunotherapy. Meanwhile, the rapid development of in vivo molecular imaging techniques provides us with powerful tools to study macrophages. In this review, we summarize the current progress in macrophage reprogramming from conceptual roadmaps to therapeutic approaches, including monoclonal antibody drugs, small molecule drugs, gene therapy, and chimeric antigen receptor-engineered macrophages (CAR-M). More importantly, we highlight the significance of molecular imaging in observing and understanding the process of macrophage reprogramming during cancer immunotherapy. Finally, we introduce the therapeutic applications of imaging and reprogramming macrophages in three solid tumors. In the future, the integration of molecular imaging into the development of novel macrophage reprogramming strategies holds great promise for precise clinical cancer immunotherapy.

Enhancing early detection of pancreatic cancer by integrating AI with advanced imaging techniques

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most lethal malignancies, with a five-year survival rate of less than 10%, primarily due to late-stage diagnosis and rapid disease progression. Early detection is critical for improving patient outcomes, yet current diagnostic methods lack the sensitivity and specificity needed for effective screening. This review explores the integration of advanced imaging techniques with artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the early detection of pancreatic cancer. Emphasizing a biological approach, we examine the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms that contribute to the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer and how they manifest in imaging data. Key imaging modalities, including high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and positron emission tomography (PET), are evaluated for their efficacy in visualizing pancreatic abnormalities. AI algorithms, particularly machine learning and deep learning, are discussed in the context of their ability to analyze complex imaging datasets, identify subtle biomarkers, and predict disease onset with high accuracy. We delve into the biological markers that AI algorithms can detect, such as changes in the tumor microenvironment, alterations in tissue architecture, and specific molecular signatures of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Furthermore, the integration of AI with molecular imaging techniques, such as positron emission tomography-magnetic resonance imaging (PET-MRI) and optical coherence tomography (OCT), is explored to provide a multi-faceted approach to early diagnosis. The review also highlights the potential of combining AI-driven imaging with liquid biopsies and genomics to create a comprehensive diagnostic framework. By leveraging the power of AI to interpret complex biological data, we propose a novel paradigm for the early detection of pancreatic cancer, aiming to improve screening protocols, enable timely therapeutic interventions, and ultimately enhance patient survival rates. In supposition, the integration of AI with advanced imaging techniques holds significant promise for revolutionizing the early detection of pancreatic cancer. Continued research and clinical validation are essential to translate these technological advancements into routine clinical practice, offering hope for better prognostic outcomes in patients with this devastating disease.

Review of Myocardial Ischemia, Scar, and Viability Estimation with Molecular Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Cardiovascular diseases, particularly myocardial ischemia from coronary artery obstruction, remain a leading cause of global morbidity. This review explores cardiac molecular magnetic resonance imaging (mMRI) and other molecular imaging techniques for the evaluation of myocardial ischemia, scarring, and viability. mMRI imaging methods provide detailed information on myocardial ischemia, edema, and scar tissue using techniques like cine imaging, T1 and T2 mapping, and gadolinium-based contrast agents. These methods enable the precise assessment of the myocardial tissue properties, crucial in diagnosing and treating cardiovascular diseases. Advanced techniques, such as the T1ρ and RAFFn methods, might provide enhanced contrast and sensitivity for the detection of myocardial scarring without contrast agents. Molecular probes, including gadolinium-based and protein-targeted contrast agents, improve the detection of molecular changes, facilitating early diagnosis and personalized treatment. Integrating MRI with positron emission tomography (PET) combines the high spatial and temporal resolution with molecular and functional imaging. Recent advancements in mMRI and molecular imaging have changed the evaluation of myocardial ischemia, scarring, and viability. Despite significant progress, extensive research is needed to validate these techniques clinically and further develop imaging methods for better diagnostic and prognostic outcomes.