Abstract
The advent of recent advances in near-infrared laser diodes and fast electro-optic detection has spawned a new research field of diagnostic spectroscopy and imaging based on targeting and reporting exogenous fluorescent agents. This review seeks to concisely address the physics, instrumentation, advancements in tomography, and near-infrared fluorescent contrast agent development that promises selective and specific molecular targeting of diseased tissues. As an example of one area of the field, recent work focusing on pharmacokinetic analysis of fluorophores targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is presented in a human breast cancer xenograft mouse model to demonstrate specificity of molecularly targeted contrast agents. Finally, a critical evaluation of the limitations and the opportunities for future translation of fluorescence-enhanced optical imaging of deep tissues is presented.