Ultrasound for molecular imaging and therapy in cancer.

• DOI: 10.3978/j.issn.2223-4292.2012.06.06
• Publication Date: 2012-06-01
• Authors: Osamu Kaneko; Jürgen K. Willmann
• Keywords: Molecular Imaging; Contrast-enhanced ultrasound; Targeted Therapy; Ultrasound imaging

Over the past decade, molecularly-targeted contrast enhanced ultrasound (ultrasound molecular imaging) has attracted significant attention in preclinical research of cancer diagnostic and therapy. Potential applications for imaging run gamut from early detection characterization malignancies to monitoring treatment responses guiding therapies. There may also be a role agents improved delivery chemotherapeutic drugs gene therapies across biological barriers. Currently, first Phase 0 clinical trial patients with prostate assesses toxicity feasibility using targeted at angiogenic marker vascular endothelial growth factor receptor type 2 (VEGFR2). This mini-review highlights recent advances potential ultrasound-guided therapy cancer.