Targeting the extracellular matrix in abdominal aortic aneurysms using molecular imaging insights

Lisa Adams, Julia Brangsch, Bernd Hamm, Marcus R. Makowski, Sarah Keller

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

This review outlines recent preclinical and clinical advances in molecular imaging of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) with a focus on molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the extracellular matrix (ECM). In addition, developments in pharmacologic treatment of AAA targeting the ECM will be discussed and results from animal studies will be contrasted with clinical trials. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is an often fatal disease without non-invasive pharmacologic treatment options. The ECM, with collagen type I and elastin as major components, is the key structural component of the aortic wall and is recognized as a target tissue for both initiation and the progression of AAA. Molecular imaging allows in vivo measurement and characterization of biological processes at the cellular and molecular level and sets forth to visualize molecular abnormalities at an early stage of disease, facilitating novel diagnostic and therapeutic pathways. By providing surrogate criteria for the in vivo evaluation of the effects of pharmacological therapies, molecular imaging techniques targeting the ECM can facilitate pharmacological drug development. In addition, molecular targets can also be used in theranostic approaches that have the potential for timely diagnosis and concurrent medical therapy. Recent successes in preclinical studies suggest future opportunities for clinical translation. However, further clinical studies are needed to validate the most promising molecular targets for human application.

Original languageEnglish
Article number2685
Pages (from-to)1-16
Number of pages16
JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences
Volume22
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Mar 2021

Keywords

  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm
  • Extracellular matrix
  • Magnetic resonance imaging
  • Molecular imaging
  • Pharmacological treatment

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