Multimodal Molecular Imaging Probes

Multimodal molecular imaging probes are integrated agents designed to combine two or more imaging modalities within a single molecular construct, thereby providing complementary information on structural, functional and molecular characteristics of living tissues. By merging techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), optical fluorescence and ultrasound, researchers overcome the inherent limitations of each modality—such as the high sensitivity of nuclear methods versus the high spatial resolution of optical imaging. Such probes often employ modular scaffolds including chelators, nanoparticles, fluorescent dyes or monoclonal antibodies to anchor radionuclides, contrast agents and targeting ligands. This versatility enables precise visualisation of molecular targets, facilitates early disease detection, guides surgical interventions and supports drug development through noninvasive monitoring of therapeutic response. The global significance of this research is evident in oncology, neurology and cardiovascular medicine, where multimodal probes enhance diagnostic accuracy, prognostic assessment and image-guided surgery.

Research from Nature Portfolio

A radioiodinated BODIPY derivative incorporating an N-hydroxysuccinimide ester was synthesised as a dual nuclear and fluorescent labelling agent, achieving high radiochemical yields and facile conjugation to proteins and peptides. The resulting radioiodinated BODIPY conjugates with bovine serum albumin, an RGD peptide and a therapeutic antibody demonstrated robust performance in single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and optical imaging in tumour-bearing mice. This approach leverages the diverse radioisotopes of iodine for SPECT, PET and potential radiotherapy, establishing a generalisable platform for dual-functional labelling of biomolecules from basic to clinical research.

Multimodal Molecular Imaging Probes publication trend

The graph below shows the total number of articles in multimodal molecular imaging probes across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).

Technical terms

Multimodal molecular imaging probe: A single agent designed to combine multiple imaging techniques to deliver complementary biological information.

Positron emission tomography (PET): A nuclear imaging method detecting pairs of gamma photons emitted by positron-emitting radionuclides to map physiological processes.

Fluorescence imaging: An optical technique that visualises fluorescent tags excited by specific wavelengths of light to reveal molecular distribution.

Chelator: A ligand that binds metal ions strongly, enabling stable incorporation of radiometals into imaging probes.

BODIPY: A boron-dipyrromethene dye scaffold widely used for its strong fluorescence and facile chemical modification.

Theranostics: An approach that integrates diagnostic imaging and therapy within a single molecular platform for personalised care.

References

1. Radioiodination of BODIPY and its application to a nuclear and optical dual functional labeling agent for proteins and peptides. Scientific Reports (2017).
2. Multimodal Molecular Imaging: Current Status and Future Directions. Contrast Media & Molecular Imaging (2018).
3. Monoclonal antibody-based molecular imaging strategies and theranostic opportunities. Theranostics (2020).
4. Developing Targeted Hybrid Imaging Probes by Chelator Scaffolding. Bioconjugate Chemistry (2017).