Abstract
Objectives:
Transplantation of bone marrow derived cells is currently under clinical evaluation as a therapy for non-ischemic congestive heart disease. An important aspect in clinical studies is the inability to track the fate of the transplanted cells. We aimed to assess a clinically applicable technique using an 3-Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging [MRI] and CliniMAC® nano-particle labelled transplanted CD-133+ cells in murine hearts.
Methods:
CD133+ cells were isolated from bone marrow by using CliniMACS® magnetic beads. Positive cells (5×10e6 cells) were transplanted into murine myocardium via the transepicardial (n=3) vs. the intracoronary route (n=3). Control animals received medium injections (n=3). MRI on a 3T scanner were performed to demonstrate the distribution of the cells.
Results:
CD133+ cells were identified on MRI gradient within the myocardium. The different distribution pattern after intracoronary injection in cardiomyopathic hearts could be visualized.
Conclusion:
Under GMP-conditions magnetically labeled CD133+ cells transplanted to restore cardiac function can be visualized by 3 T MRI at high-field strength.