PET Radiotracers of the Cardiovascular System

Cardiovascular PET provides exquisite measurements of key aspects of the cardiovascular system and as a consequence it plays central role in cardiovascular investigation. Moreover, PET is now playing an ever increasing role in the management of the cardiac patient. Central to the success of PET is the development and use of novel radiotracers that permit measurements of key aspects of cardiovascular health such as myocardial perfusion, metabolism, and neuronal function. Moreover, the development of molecular imaging radiotracers is now permitting the interrogation of cellular and sub cellular processes. This article highlights these various radiotracers and their role in both cardiovascular research and potential clinical applications.