SURFACE-MODIFIED LIPOSOMES IN GAMMA-IMAGING AND MR-IMAGING

The application of plain and surface-modified liposomes as carriers fo r imaging agents in gamma-scintigraphy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered. The methods for preparing liposomes loaded with d ifferent contrast agents, and some data on their biodistribution are b riefly described. The application of contrast-loaded liposomes for the gamma- and MR-imaging of liver and spleen, cardio-vascular system, tu mors, lymph nodes, infection and inflammation sites, and some other re gions of clinical interest is briefly reviewed. New trends in the use of contrast-loaded liposomes are also considered, such as the applicat ion of surface-modified liposomes for imaging purposes. Polymers used for liposome surface modification include polychelators which increase the liposome load with a reporter metal, and polyethylene glycol whic h provides long circulating time to liposomes and improves some contra st characteristics of metal-loaded liposomes.