Nanoparticulate formulations have been valuable imaging tools in
preclinical cardiovascular disease research. Nanocarriers' distinct properties are useful
to carry out imaging with significant functional versatility, which is not achieved by
traditional small-molecule agents. Various cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) require
molecular and cellular mechanisms understanding, which will provide valuable insight
towards theranostic (diagnostic and therapeutic) applications. Nanocarriers and
radiolabeled nanoparticulate probes demonstrate their utility in several CVDs
applications such as blood pool imaging and molecular imaging of ischemia,
angiogenesis, atherosclerosis, and inflammation. Further, these emergent technologies
need to address safety, toxicity and regulatory obligations for their clinical translation.
Keywords: Microbubble, Nanoparticles. Imaging, Quantum dots.
