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PET in psychopharmacology
R Maria Moresco1, C Messa, G Lucignani
1INB-CNR, Scientific Institute H San Raffaele, University of Milan-Bicocca, Italy. rosam@mednuc.hsr.it
Pharmacological Research
|September 1, 2001
Summary
Positron emission tomography (PET) allows in vivo study of brain function and neurochemistry in humans. This review covers PET strategies and results in psychopharmacology, aiding drug development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Positron emission tomography (PET) enables in vivo study of physiological and neurochemical variables.
- Methods were adapted from quantitative autoradiography for human subjects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review PET strategies and results in psychopharmacology.
- Highlight PET's utility in biological psychiatry and psychoactive drug development.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing PET to assess neurochemical challenges and brain function.
- Evaluating neurotransmitter activity and molecular targets in disease states.
- Tracking drug disposition and activity in target organs.
Main Results:
- PET assesses regional brain function under various conditions.
- It monitors neurotransmitter systems and molecular targets during pathology and treatment.
- PET quantifies drug kinetics and effects in vivo.
Conclusions:
- PET is a valuable tool for studying brain function and neurochemistry in humans.
- Its application in psychopharmacology aids in understanding psychiatric disorders and drug development.