CT imaging of myocardial scar burden with CNA35-conjugated gold nanoparticles

CNA35-conjugated gold nanoparticles were investigated as a new class of CT contrast agents for vascular and molecular imaging. Early phase imaging within the first hour of injection of the gold nanoparticles demonstrated uniform and stable blood pool enhancement. After the clearance of freely circulating gold nanoparticles at 6 hours, late phase imaging demonstrated specific localization and CT enhancement of the myocardial scar. The extent of vascular lesions and scar burden in the heart provides vital diagnostic information for risk stratification and management of patients with coronary artery disease.124