Molecular Contrast Optical Coherence Tomography: A Review

Abstract

This article reviews the current state of research on the use of molecular contrast agents in optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging techniques. After a brief discussion of the basic principle of OCT and the importance of incorporating molecular contrast agent usage into this imaging modality, we shall present an overview of the different molecular contrast OCT (MCOCT) methods that have been developed thus far. We will then discuss several important practical issues that define the possible range of contrast agent choice, the design criteria for engineered molecular contrast agent and the implementability of a given MCOCT method for clinical or biological applications. We will conclude by outlining a few areas of pursuit that deserve a greater degree of research and development.

Molecular Imaging in Optical Coherence Tomography

“…Likewise, each tends to be optimal for different contrast agents. We will refrain from making such comparisons and refer the reader to two prior works (108, 109). Nevertheless, it can be insightful to make some direct comparisons between the approaches.…”

Applications of optical coherence tomography in cardiovascular medicine, Part 2

“…Various approaches have be attempted including chemical enhancers (i.e., absorbing dyes) and contrast agents 75. First, though nanoparticles are below the resolution of OCT, they could provide a method of contrast enhancement through increased back-scattering of light (ref.…”

Magnetic and Plasmonic Contrast Agents in Optical Coherence Tomography

“…In order to widen the application space of OCT, there has been much effort to develop contrast agents and associated imaging methods [15, 16]. Because OCT only senses coherently backscattered light, it cannot detect light from traditional incoherent (fluorescent) probes used widely in microscopy.…”

“…In many applications such as cancer diagnostics, effective targeting of these agents by bioconjugation or the enhanced permeability and retention effect is needed, and the reader is directed to reviews for more detailed information about targeting moieties [17, 18]. Also, magnetic and plasmonic nanoparticles are by no means the only methods for OCT contrast enhancement, and the reader is directed to review articles that cover a broader range of development [16, 19, 20]. …”