Improving technology for molecular imaging with ultrasound

Ultrasonic molecular imaging is a nascent field where the application of targeted contrast agents permits assessment of molecular changes in physiology. This is in contrast to the traditional anatomical imaging applications of ultrasound. To date, ultrasonic molecular imaging has shown promise in detecting molecular markers associated with angiogenesis, inflammation, and thrombus. However, this new modality has been only slowly advancing, and is still largely limited to studies in animal models. This conference proceeding reviews several challenge areas where our group is improving technology to facilitate ultrasonic molecular imaging.