Imaging with radiolabelled anti-membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) antibody: potentials for characterizing atherosclerotic plaques

Abstract

Higher (99m)Tc-MT1-MMP mAb accumulation in grade IV atheroma was shown in comparison with neointimal lesions or other more stable lesions. Nuclear imaging with (99m)Tc-MT1-MMP mAb, in combination with CT and MRI, could provide new diagnostic imaging capabilities for detecting vulnerable plaques, although further investigations to improve target to blood ratios are strongly required.

Molecular imaging of the extracellular matrix in the context of atherosclerosis

“…In vivo measurements showed a strong correlation with the high MMP activity ex vivo [143]. In a different study, 99mTc labeled monoclonal antibodies specific for membranebound MMPs ([99mTc]anti-MT1-MMP mAb) showed an increased accumulation in unstable lesions (grade IV atheroma) in a rabbit model [144]. Regional 99mTc-MT1-MMP mAb correlated positively with MT1-MMP expression [144].…”

“…In a different study, 99mTc labeled monoclonal antibodies specific for membranebound MMPs ([99mTc]anti-MT1-MMP mAb) showed an increased accumulation in unstable lesions (grade IV atheroma) in a rabbit model [144]. Regional 99mTc-MT1-MMP mAb correlated positively with MT1-MMP expression [144]. Applying a different approach, a technetium-99m-labeled MMP inhibitor was tested in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis.…”

Recent Advances in the Development of PET/SPECT Probes for Atherosclerosis Imaging

“…99m Tc-labeled monoclonal IgG which recognizes membrane type 1-matrix metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP) [24]; MT1-MMP is involved in the degradation of the extracellular matrix and the weakening of the fibrous cap.…”

Recent Advances of Radionuclide-Based Molecular Imaging of Atherosclerosis

“…The antigens exposed by antigen-presenting cells are presented to adaptive immunity cells, activating T-cells and inducing antibody production by B-cells. The association between autoantigens produced during atherogenesis and their respective autoantibodies has been studied as a target for atherosclerosis imaging [13-15]. …”