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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
Utilizing 18F-FDG PET/CT Imaging and Quantitative Histology to Measure Dynamic Changes in the Glucose Metabolism in Mouse Models of Lung Cancer
Published on: July 21, 2018
Tumor cell metabolism imaging
Christian Plathow1, Wolfgang A Weber
1Department of Nuclear Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
Abstract:
Molecular imaging of tumor metabolism has gained considerable interest, since preclinical studies have indicated a close relationship between the activation of various oncogenes and alterations of cellular metabolism. Furthermore, several clinical trials have shown that metabolic imaging can significantly impact patient management by improving tumor staging, restaging, radiation treatment planning, and monitoring of tumor response to therapy. In this review, we summarize recent data on the molecular mechanisms underlying the increased metabolic activity of cancer cells and discuss imaging techniques for studies of tumor glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism.
Insights
Molecular imaging reveals how cancer cells alter their metabolism due to oncogene activation. This technique aids in tumor staging, treatment planning, and monitoring therapy response, impacting patient management.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Preclinical studies link oncogene activation to altered cancer cell metabolism.
- Metabolic imaging shows promise in clinical oncology applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review molecular mechanisms of increased cancer cell metabolism.
- To discuss imaging techniques for tumor metabolism.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent data.
- Focus on molecular mechanisms and imaging techniques.
Main Results:
- Detailed discussion of molecular pathways driving cancer metabolism.
- Overview of imaging modalities for glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism.
Conclusions:
- Molecular imaging of tumor metabolism is crucial for understanding cancer.
- Advanced imaging techniques improve patient management and therapeutic strategies.
