The integration of PET and MRI modalities into a single hybrid imaging system has been demonstrated to synergistically compensate for the limitations of each modality, with the potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve development of therapeutics. To take advantage of the progress of the hybrid PET/MRI hardware, nanoparticle-based probes are being developed for multimodal applications. In this paper, recent advances in the development of nanoparticle-based, multimodal PET/MRI probes are reviewed. Common MRI contrast agents, PET tracers and chelators and surface functionality that comprised PET/MRI nanoprobes reported in the last 10 years are summarized, followed by a description of the physical properties of these probes and their imaging applications.
Keywords: MRI; PET; PET/MRI probes; multimodal imaging; nanoparticles.