ABSTRACT
Methods for monitoring and specifically imaging expressed genes are poised to benefit gene therapy. One may attempt to image the product directly or make imaging agents that bind, and thus allow visualization of the imaging product. Imaging methods designed to detect gene expression in vivo will be needed, both for further development of gene delivery systems and for monitoring clinical efficacy and toxicity. The approach of making an imaging agent for each delivery vehicle or gene of interest is not practical because it would be time consuming, expensive, and in some cases, technically exceptionally difficult. Reporter gene imaging can be used to test an end goal of gene therapy, expression of the gene of interest in order to cure a disease. Imaging of reporter gene expression has a very promising future for clinical applications. Multiple reporter systems are now available for selection of either single or multiple gene therapies based on clinical need.
