In Vivo Imaging Techniques of the Nanocarriers Used for Targeted Drug Delivery

Abstract

In vivo imaging of nanocarrier mediated targeted drug delivery is a relatively new methodology gaining fast acceptance in biomedical research and clinical practice. Imaging modalities frequently utilized for in vivo research are mostly adaptations from familiar, clinical imaging instrumentation such as X-ray Computed Tomography (CT), gamma scintigraphy, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Optical imaging, Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and Fluorescence imaging. However, applications of newer technologies such as Optical imaging originated with laboratory animal applications are not ruled out for long term translational applications to derive the requisite information. Each of the technologies described subsequently allow for noninvasive, non-traumatic imaging over a time course. Acquisition times as well as sensitivity, specificity, resolution, ease of use, and cost of these methodologies vary. Different imaging techniques are used to assess different parameters such as anatomical, physiological, pharmacological, and molecular information. In certain cases, multi-modality approaches may be necessary. A number of studies have been reported for imaging the nanocarriers used for targeted drug delivery using these techniques for their preclinical evaluation.