Handbook of Targeted Delivery of Imaging Agents

This is the first time detailed and updated information on the targeted delivery of imaging agents has been collected into a single handbook. This comprehensive volume presents the scientific background together with the latest experimental and clinical data in this fast-growing area. The Handbook of Targeted Delivery of Imaging Agents meets the requirements of the broadest audience including researchers, practitioners, and students. The basic principles of targeted delivery of imaging are presented and discussed together with various imaging agents and different imaging modalities such as gamma-imaging, MR-imaging, and CT, PET, and SPECT imaging. The book consists of eight parts and 39 chapters covering all aspects of targeted drug delivery-from the imaging theory and chemistry of imaging agents to their experimental and clinical use for targeted visualization of cancer, including ovarian, prostate, colorectal, and thyroid cancer, cardiovascular (atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and thromboses) and neurological diseases, infection, and inflammation sites. A special section discusses the targeted delivery of imaging agents into lymph nodes, which are often sites of metasteses during different malignant diseases. Monoclonal antibody-based targeted imaging agents are considered together with new approaches involving the use of labeled micelles, liposomes, and polymer-coated particles. The book describes the possible application of designer antibodies for the delivery of diagnostic agents, including the preparation, properties, labeling, and experimental use of multifunctional antibodies. The alternative improvement of antibody-directed targeting describes the application of avidin-biotin system for the delivery of imaging agents. Long circulating blood pool imaging agents are considered as a special group of organ-specific pharmaceuticals. The latest trends in the synthesis of immunoscintigraphic, MR, and CT agents are presented. This Handbook of Targeted Delivery of Imaging Agents is a must-have reference for all those who need to stay abreast of the latest developments in this hot field.