Monitoring plaque inflammation in atherosclerotic rabbits with an iron oxide (P904) and (18)F-FDG using a combined PET/MR scanner.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare the ability of (18)F-FDG PET and iron contrast-enhanced MRI with a novel USPIO (P904) to assess change in plaque inflammation induced by atorvastatin and dietary change in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis using a combined PET/MR scanner.

Materials and methods

Atherosclerotic rabbits underwent USPIO-enhanced MRI and (18)F-FDG PET in PET/MR hybrid system at baseline and were then randomly divided into a progression group (high cholesterol diet) and a regression group (chow diet and atorvastatin). Each group was scanned again 6 months after baseline imaging. R2* (i.e. 1/T2*) values were calculated pre/post P904 injection. (18)F-FDG PET data were analyzed by averaging the mean Standard Uptake Value (SUVmean) over the abdominal aorta.

SUBMITTER: Millon A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4128694 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature