Molecular imaging of atherosclerosis: clinical state-of-the-art.

Abstract

Molecular imaging is a burgeoning field that aims to image molecular and cellular detail in living subjects. In cardiovascular research, many exciting approaches have emerged, and several are utilized in the clinic or are in the process of translation. Here, we discuss high priority clinical developments in molecular imaging of atherosclerosis, and showcase examples that may enable improved detection of high-risk plaques, clinical risk stratification, and biological assessment of pharmacotherapeutic approaches.