Magnetic Particle Imaging: Molecular Imaging Without Radiation

摘要

Introduction: Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) is an imaging modality that maps the in vivo spatial distribution of magnetic nanoparticle contrast agents. The technique shows extraordinary promise as a quantitative and fast molecular imaging technique seeing only nanoparticles, and as a safe substitute for iodinated or gadolinium contrast angiograms in patients with poor kidney function who have difficulty excreting these standard contrast agents[1]. First introduced in 2005 by Gleich and Weizenecker[2], the technique exploits the nonlinear magnetization characteristics of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles to localize their spatial position.