Smart Nanoparticles for Diagnosis and Therapy of Atherosclerosis

<p dir="ltr">This thesis develops and evaluates smart nanoparticles for imaging and treating cardiovascular diseases, particularly atherosclerosis and thrombosis. It presents two main studies. First, fluorine-doped iron oxide nanoparticles enhance magnetic particle imaging with better sensitivity and biocompatibility. Second, two types of therapeutic nanoparticles are explored: VCAM-1-targeted liposomes delivering cyclodextrin and ROS-responsive polymer micelles. Both systems show selective targeting and anti-inflammatory effects respectively along with improved cholesterol clearance in cell-based models. These results indicate strong therapeutic promise. The nanoparticles offer safer, more effective strategies than existing treatments. This work holds practical value for advancing non-invasive imaging and targeted therapy in atherosclerosis management.</p>