Perspectives: MRI of angiogenesis

J Magn Reson. 2018 Jul:292:99-105. doi: 10.1016/j.jmr.2018.04.008. Epub 2018 Apr 12.

Abstract

Angiogenesis, the expansion of the vascular bed, is an important component in remodeling of tissues and organs. Such remodeling is essential for coping with substantial and sustained increase in the demands for supply of oxygen and nutrients and the timely removal of waste products. The vasculature, and its effectiveness in systemic delivery to all parts of the body, regulates the distribution of immune cells and the delivery of therapeutics as well as the dissemination of disease. Therefore, the vascular bed is possibly one of the key organs involved in homeostasis, in health and disease. The critical role of the vasculature in health, and the accessibility to non invasive probing by MRI, renders MRI as a modality of choice for monitoring the vasculature and its adaption to challenges.

Keywords: Angiogenesis; MRI; Molecular imaging; Permeability; Vascular remodeling.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Blood Vessels / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Molecular Imaging
  • Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Neovascularization, Pathologic / diagnostic imaging*