MRI Reporter Genes

Noninvasive molecular imaging of dynamic processes has benefited tremendously from the use of reporter genes. These genes encode for proteins that emit light, bind radiolabeled probes, or, as covered in this review,modulateMRI contrast. Re-porter genes play a pivotal role inmonitoring cell trafficking, gene replacement therapy, protein–protein interactions, neuronal plasticity, and embryonic development. Several strategies exist for generating MRI contrast: using enzyme-catalyzed chemical modification of metal-based contrast agents or (phosphorus) metabolites, iron-binding and iron-storage proteins to accumu-late iron as a contrast agent, and artificial proteins for imaging based on chemical exchange saturation transfer. MRI reporter genes have the advantage that the specific signal can be co-registered with soft-tissue anatomy and functional tissue infor-mation and have, therefore, become an active and growing area of scientific interest. KeyWords:molecular imaging;MR imaging;MRI spectroscopy; reporter gene; ferriti