The Application of Nanoparticles in Gene Therapy and Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The combination of nanoparticles, gene therapy, and medical imaging has given rise to a new field known as gene theranostics, in which a nanobioconjugate is used to diagnose and treat the disease. The process generally involves binding between a vector carrying the genetic information and a nanoparticle, which provides the signal for imaging. The synthesis of this probe generates a synergic effect, enhancing the efficiency of gene transduction and imaging contrast. We discuss the latest approaches in the synthesis of nanoparticles for magnetic reso- nance imaging, gene therapy strategies, and their conjugation and in vivo application. Microsc. Res. Tech. 74:577-591, 2011. V C 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.