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Site‐directed contrast enhancement of angiogenic vessels in vivo was demonstrated using antibody targeting of an MRI contrast agent to the αvβ3integrin, a molecular marker characteristic of angiogenic endothelium. The agent was tested in a rabbit corneal micropocket model, in which neovasculature is induced in the cornea using basic fibroblast growth factor. The targeted contrast agent consists of Gd‐perfluorocarbon nanoparticles linked to αvβ3integrin antibody DM101. The animal group receiving the targeted contrast agent displayed a 25% increase in the average MR signal intensity after 90 min. Control groups in which the nanoparticles are either used alone, linked to an isotype‐matched antibody, or linked to DM101 and administered following receptor blocking did not display MR contrast enhancement at similar dose levels. These findings indicate that the antibody‐targeted agent enhances MR signal intensity in the capillary bed in a corneal micropocket model of angiogenesis, and is selectively retained within the angiogenic region via specific interaction with the αvβ3epitope. Magn Reson Med 44:433–439, 2000. © 2000 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.