In vivo optical imaging of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related non-cancerous diseases

The pathogenesis and progression of various diseases is highly related to the dysregulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In vivo optical imaging of ROS-relevant molecular events provides a valuable tool for non-invasive evaluation of the oxidative stress level and pathological alterations of human biological systems. Currently, involvement of ROS in the progression, angiogenesis and metastasis of cancer has been well documented, while comprehensive understanding of the roles of ROS in non-cancerous diseases are also essential for early disease diagnostics and evaluation of therapeutic response. In this review, we summarize recent advances in ROS-responsive probes for in vivo imaging and diagnosis of various physiological system diseases, including central nervous system diseases, respiratory system diseases, digestive system diseases, urinary system diseases, and other diseases. We highlight the design strategy, the mechanisms of ROS response and in vivo imaging studies, followed by discussions of the current challenges and perspectives in this field.