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Molecular imaging: what can be used today
P L Jager1, M A de Korte, M N Lub-de Hooge
1Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Center, Groningen, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Biochemical cellular targets and more general metabolic processes in cancer cells can be visualised. Extensive data are available on molecular imaging in preclinical models. However, innovative tracers move slowly to the clinic. This review provides information on the currently available methods of metabolic imaging, especially using PET in humans. The uptake mechanisms of tracer methods and a brief discussion of the more 'molecular' targeted methods are presented. The main focus is on the different classes of tracers and their application in various types of cancer within each class of tracers, based on the current literature and our own experience. Studies with [18F]FDG (energy metabolism), radiolabelled amino acids (protein metabolism), [18F]FLT (DNA metabolism), [11C]choline (cell membrane metabolism) as general metabolic tracer methods and [18F]DOPA (biogenic amine metabolism) as a more specific tracer method are discussed. As an example, molecular imaging methods that target the HER2 receptor and somatostatin receptor are described.
Insights
This review covers human metabolic imaging, focusing on positron emission tomography (PET) tracers for cancer. It details various tracers like [18F]FDG and radiolabeled amino acids, discussing their clinical applications and mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nuclear Medicine
- Molecular Imaging
Background:
- Metabolic processes in cancer cells are key targets for visualization.
- Preclinical molecular imaging data is extensive, but clinical translation of novel tracers is slow.
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a crucial tool for in vivo metabolic imaging in humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review currently available human metabolic imaging methods, particularly PET.
- To discuss tracer uptake mechanisms and molecularly targeted imaging approaches.
- To categorize and present applications of various cancer PET tracers based on literature and experience.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on human metabolic imaging.
- Focus on Positron Emission Tomography (PET) techniques.
- Discussion of tracer classes: energy metabolism ([18F]FDG), protein metabolism (amino acids), DNA metabolism ([18F]FLT), cell membrane metabolism ([11C]choline), and biogenic amine metabolism ([18F]DOPA).
- Examples of receptor-targeted imaging (HER2, somatostatin receptors).
Main Results:
- Detailed discussion of general metabolic tracers including [18F]FDG, radiolabeled amino acids, [18F]FLT, and [11C]choline.
- Exploration of specific tracers like [18F]DOPA for biogenic amine metabolism.
- Presentation of molecularly targeted imaging examples.
- Emphasis on the clinical application of these tracers across various cancer types.
Conclusions:
- Metabolic imaging, especially PET, offers valuable insights into cancer biology in humans.
- A range of tracers targeting different metabolic pathways are available for clinical use.
- Further development and clinical translation of innovative tracers are essential for advancing cancer diagnostics and treatment monitoring.
