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[Development of molecular imaging probes in oncology]
1Cyclotron and Radioisotope Center, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan.
Abstract:
Molecular imaging probes used for positron emission tomography(PET)in oncology are reviewed. Although [18F] FDG is presently the most useful probe for imaging tumors, there is a need for complementary probes of FDG with some limitations on detection in the brain or inflammatory region. The review is mostly focused on 18F-labeled probes designed for amino acid transport and protein synthesis, DNA synthesis, membrane lipid, and hypoxia such as FET, FLT, FMAU, fluorocholine, and FMISO, together with our original probes of FMT and FRP-170.
Insights
New molecular imaging probes for positron emission tomography (PET) in oncology offer alternatives to [18F] FDG. These novel 18F-labeled agents target amino acid transport, protein synthesis, DNA synthesis, and hypoxia for improved tumor detection.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiochemistry
- Molecular Imaging
Background:
- Positron emission tomography (PET) is crucial for oncology, with [18F] FDG being the current standard for tumor imaging.
- Limitations of [18F] FDG include detection in the brain and inflammatory regions, necessitating complementary probes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review novel 18F-labeled molecular imaging probes for PET in oncology.
- To highlight probes targeting specific biological processes beyond glucose metabolism.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of 18F-labeled PET imaging probes.
- Focus on probes targeting amino acid transport, protein synthesis, DNA synthesis, membrane lipid metabolism, and hypoxia.
Main Results:
- Several 18F-labeled probes including FET, FLT, FMAU, fluorocholine, and FMISO are discussed.
- Original probes FMT and FRP-170 are also presented as potential advancements.
Conclusions:
- Novel 18F-labeled PET probes offer complementary roles to [18F] FDG in oncology.
- These probes target diverse biological pathways, potentially improving tumor-specific imaging and reducing false positives.
