Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026
MR Molecular Imaging of Prostate Cancer with a Small Molecular CLT1 Peptide Targeted Contrast Agent
Published on: September 3, 2013
Potential impact of molecular imaging in oncology
Susanne Klutmann1, Malte Clausen
1Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany. klutmann@uke.uni-hamburg.de
Abstract:
Despite all progress in molecular imaging methods, the actual number of validated new markers is still limited. The breakthrough of individual efforts is often hampered by lack of critical mass of resources. To overcome these shortcomings a "network" of multidisciplinary experts is indispensable. Focusing on cancer therapy, molecular imaging has a high potential impact in (a) early therapy monitoring and (b) prediction of therapeutic response. Novel molecular markers with high diagnostic potential reflecting apoptosis, proliferation and glucose metabolism are currently used in clinical trials for monitoring of tumor response to therapy. A further innovative approach for supporting individualized cancer therapy may be the application of radio-labelled therapeutic drugs at tracer concentrations in order to estimate their individual uptake in the tumor tissue. To meet this challenge, our group initiated a research project focusing on radio-labelling of selected molecules with proven therapeutic potential.
Insights
Developing new molecular imaging markers for cancer therapy is crucial. A multidisciplinary network approach and radiolabeling therapeutic drugs show promise for personalized cancer treatment monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Oncology and Molecular Imaging
Background:
- Limited validated molecular imaging markers hinder cancer therapy progress.
- Individual research efforts face resource limitations, necessitating collaboration.
- Molecular imaging offers potential for early therapy monitoring and response prediction in cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the limitations in molecular imaging marker development.
- To explore the impact of molecular imaging in cancer therapy monitoring and response prediction.
- To initiate a research project on radiolabeling therapeutic molecules.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing novel molecular markers for apoptosis, proliferation, and glucose metabolism in clinical trials.
- Investigating the application of radiolabeled therapeutic drugs at tracer concentrations.
- Focusing on the radio-labeling of selected molecules with established therapeutic potential.
Main Results:
- Novel markers are being evaluated in clinical trials for tumor response monitoring.
- The study explores innovative approaches for individualized cancer therapy.
- A research project has been initiated for radiolabeling therapeutic molecules.
Conclusions:
- Multidisciplinary networks are essential for advancing molecular imaging in cancer.
- Radiolabeled therapeutic drugs offer a promising avenue for personalized cancer treatment.
- Further research in radiolabeling selected molecules is warranted.
