Non-invasive imaging for studying anti-angiogenic therapy effects

摘要: Noninvasive imaging plays an emerging role in preclinical and clinical cancer research has high potential to improve translation of new drugs. This article summarises discusses tools methods image tumour angiogenesis monitor anti-angiogenic therapy effects. In this context, micro-computed tomography (µCT) is recommended visualise quantify the micro-architecture functional vessels. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (US) magnetic resonance (MRI) are favourable assess vascular parameters, such as perfusion relative blood volume. These parameters have been shown indicate response at early stage, before changes size appear. For characterisation, molecular characteristics vessels, receptor expression, might even higher diagnostic be highly suitable for monitoring well. US using targeted microbubbles currently evaluated trials important tool characterisation angiogenic endothelium. Other modalities, being preferably used vessels their surrounding stroma, photoacoustic (PAI), near-infrared fluorescence optical (OI), MRI, positron emission (PET) single photon computed (SPECT). The latter two particularly useful if very sensitivity needed, and/or target difficult access. Carefully considering pros cons different modalities a multimodal setup enables comprehensive longitudinal assessment (micro)morphology, function regulation