ABSTRACT
Dendrimers are nanosized artificial macromolecules with radial symmetry characterised by a high number of functional groups in a compact and precisely defined molecular structure. These characteristics offer tremendous opportunities for drug delivery, therapeutic application and diagnostics. A variety of dendrimers exists with unique physicochemical properties, which suggest their suitability for diagnostic applications. Some of the diagnostic utility includes their use as contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging and in other imaging techniques such as positron emission tomography, computed tomography, in fluorescence imaging and as biosensors. Dendrimersare also combined with other nanostructures such as quantum dots and carbon nanotubes for enhancement of diagnostic features. This chapter will cover diverse applications of dendrimers in diagnostic applications.
