Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) exhibits a high prevalence and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes, underscoring the critical importance of early detection. Early identification of CMD can significantly improve patient prognosis. This study aims to provide a novel strategy for the precise diagnosis of CMD during its early inflammatory phase. Focusing on this key inflammatory stage in the pathological progression, we sought to identify stage-specific molecular biomarkers. Through proteomic screening, we identified Nerve Injury-Induced Protein 1 (Ninj1). During the inflammatory response, Ninj1 promotes leukocyte migration and macrophage transendothelial migration, thereby influencing the trafficking and distribution of inflammatory cells. IR780 is a novel near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent agent characterized by excellent photostability and low toxicity. Loading IR780 onto nanoparticles enhances its in vivo biocompatibility and photostability while prolonging its circulation time. This project proposes a dual-modal molecular imaging probe targeting Ninj1 and loaded with IR780, which integrates NIR fluorescence and ultrasound imaging capabilities. This probe is designed to enable the early screening of CMD.
Xu et al. (Wed,) studied this question.