Synthesis of Hybrid Nanomaterials for Diagnostics and Bioimaging

Dear Colleagues,

In the last several decades, the irruption of nanomaterials in the field of medicine has revolutionized the early diagnosis of diseases that could hardly be detected without them.

The diagnosis is mainly based on molecular imaging that enables the visualization and follow-up of molecular processes at the cellular and molecular levels in living organisms by using biomarkers without perturbing them. The most common imaging techniques in clinical practice are magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon-emission computed tomography (SPECT). Luminescent imaging (LI) is also used at the laboratory scale for fundamental studies. These techniques are considered non-invasive and provide, in a real-time manner, images with high spatial and temporal resolution with excellent anatomical details (mainly of soft tissue).

In the particular case of PET and SPECT techniques, it is necessary to use radionuclide tracers as contrast agents. However, MRI and CT enhance their sensitivity by the use of specific contrast agents. More intense and stable luminescent agents are also required. Therefore, the development of new contrast agents that improve the visualization of regions of interest with good spatial resolution is an important topic in clinical diagnosis.

Moreover, the important advances in colloidal synthesis are leading to the development of a wide variety of nanomaterials with excellent properties and applications as contrast agents in the abovementioned techniques.

In summary, a large number of different formulations of hybrid nanomaterials could be designed as potential diagnostic tools for clinical practice.

Dr. Manuel Pernia Leal
Prof. Dr. Alberto Escudero
Guest Editors

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