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Radionuclide-fluorescence Reporter Gene Imaging to Track Tumor Progression in Rodent Tumor Models
10:04

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Published on: March 13, 2018

Cancer imaging: Gene transcription-based imaging and therapeutic systems

Hyo-eun C Bhang1, Martin G Pomper

  • 1Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA.

The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology
|February 22, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Molecular-genetic imaging aims to detect diverse cancers with high sensitivity using novel gene reporter systems. Future success relies on safe, systemic delivery vectors and integration with gene therapy for clinical translation.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Imaging
  • Gene Therapy

Background:

  • Molecular-genetic imaging for cancer detection is an emerging field.
  • Gene reporter systems have advanced in preclinical research and early clinical trials.
  • Current research focuses on optimizing gene delivery vehicles and reporter systems for clinical translation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify optimal gene delivery vehicles and reporter imaging systems for sensitive and specific cancer detection.
  • To develop molecular-genetic imaging that rivals the sensitivity and specificity of positron emission tomography with [(18)F]fluorodeoxyglucose.
  • To explore strategies for systemic delivery of reporter genes for detecting micrometastases.

Main Methods:

  • Optimization of gene reporter systems in preclinical models.
  • Evaluation of viral and nanotechnology-based vectors for systemic gene delivery.
  • Investigating the merger of molecular-genetic imaging with gene therapy.

Main Results:

  • Gene reporter systems show promise but require further optimization for clinical use.
  • Systemic delivery and non-toxic vectors are crucial for widespread acceptance in oncology.
  • The combination of molecular-genetic imaging with gene therapy is a viable strategy.

Conclusions:

  • Molecular-genetic imaging holds significant potential for cancer detection.
  • Safe and effective systemic gene delivery is essential for detecting micrometastases.
  • Integrating gene therapy with molecular imaging is key to clinical adoption.

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