Combined vascular targeted imaging and therapy: a paradigm for personalized treatment.

In order to be successful in personalizing treatment, methods for selecting patients as well as good surrogate biomarkers for monitoring the effects of treatment are required in addition to development of an efficacious targeted therapy. We have developed a polymerized nanoparticle platform technology that will allow us to put different targeting moieties on the surface of the particles in addition to loading the particles with different contrast and therapeutic agents. We have proven that these nanoparticles can be targeted to endothelial receptors and different payloads of contrast and therapeutic agents have been delivered to target cells with high target to background ratios. Using this combined vascular targeted imaging and therapy approach, we are optimistic that personalized treatment regimens can be developed for different disease processes such as cancer, inflammation, and ischemia. Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.