This book surveys recent advances in theranostics based on magnetic
nanoparticles, ultrasound contrast agents, silica nanoparticles and
polymeric micelles. It presents magnetic nanoparticles, which offer a
robust tool for contrast enhanced MRI imaging, magnetic targeting,
controlled drug delivery, molecular imaging guided gene therapy,
magnetic hyperthermia, and controlling cell fate. Multifunctional
ultrasound contrast agents have great potential in ultrasound molecular
imaging, multimodal imaging, drug/gene delivery, and integrated
diagnostics and therapeutics. Due to their diversity and
multifunctionality, polymeric micelles and silica-based nanocomposites
are highly capable of enhancing the efficacy of multimodal imaging and
synergistic cancer therapy.
This comprehensive book summarizes the main advances in multifunctional
nanoprobes for targeted imaging and therapy of gastric cancer, and
explores the clinical translational prospects and challenges. Although
more research is needed to overcome the substantial obstacles that
impede the development and availability of nanotheranostic products,
such nontrivial nanoagents are expected to revolutionize medical
treatments and help to realize the potential of personalized medicine to
diagnose, treat, and follow-up patients with cancer.
Zhifei Dai is a Professor at the Department of Biomedical Engineering,
College of Engineering, Peking University, China.