Non invasive imaging modalities for cardiovascular translational research-technical considerations

Non-invasive imaging (PET, SPECT, MRI, CT, US, optical imaging and hybrid modalities) has contributed significantly to Cardiovascular Translational Research since it allows data to be obtained in the context of the whole living organism, often in a format suitable for quantification and performance of longitudinal studies both in animals and humans. During the last decade important developments have been achieved in the use of sophisticated imaging probes targeting key molecules and cells, thus creating a new multidisciplinary field, termed –molecular imaging.— Amongst the various modalities, Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) offer the greatest translational potential, because of the wide availability of existing clinical scanners, high imaging sensitivity, versatile radiochemistry options and the ongoing development of new imaging agents. Advances in nanoparticle probe development have made Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) an emerging, radiation-free alternative technique, pending more demonstrations of clinical performance and safety for both gadolinium-based and iron oxide-based compounds. Optical imaging and molecular ultrasound (US) will probably require longer time for clinical translation, while computed tomography.