αVβ3 integrin-targeted microSPECT/CT imaging of inflamed atherosclerotic plaques in mice

Background αVβ3-integrin is expressed by activated endothelial cells and macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques and may represent a valuable marker of high-risk plaques. We evaluated 99mTc-maraciclatide, an integrin-specific tracer, for imaging vascular inflammation in atherosclerotic lesions in mice.