Recent developments in targeted imaging of CXCR4-chemokine receptor

Chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) have been over-expressed by multiple types of primary and metastatic cancer cells and organs. Accordingly, various types of small molecules, as well as, bio-molecules were employed for CXCR4 targeting for selective and efficient diagnosis and treatment of malignancies and diseases. Moreover, recent progresses in imaging modalities like SPECT, PET, and optical detection instruments have provided a promising perspective for the emergence of a potential detection and treatment by CXCR4 in desired tissues and organs. In this review, the reported CXCR4 targeted imaging agents are described based on their specificity, affinity and biodistribution.