Molecular MRI of murine atherosclerotic plaque targeting NGAL: a protein associated with unstable human plaque characteristics

Abstract

NGAL is highly expressed in atheromatous human plaques and associated with increased MMP-9 activity. NGAL can be detected in murine atherosclerotic arteries using targeted high-resolution MR imaging. Therefore, we conclude that NGAL might serve as a novel imaging target for the detection of high-risk plaques.