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Updated: May 7, 2026
Quantitative 3D In Silico Modeling q3DISM of Cerebral Amyloid-beta Phagocytosis in Rodent Models of Alzheimer's Disease
Published on: December 26, 2016
Neuroinflammation and β amyloid deposition in Alzheimer's disease: in vivo quantification with molecular imaging
Background/Aims:
Neuroinflammation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Its relationship with underlying β amyloid deposition remains unclear. In vivo visualization of microglial activation has become possible with the development of molecular imaging ligands when used with positron emission tomography (PET). The translocator protein (TSPO) is upregulated during neuroinflammation. Consequently, targeting TSPO with radiolabeled ligands for PET is an attractive biomarker for neuroinflammation.
Methods:
A review of the research literature on PET imaging which studied in vivo neuroinflammation in AD subjects and its relationship with amyloid load was performed, including papers published between 2001 and 2012.
Results:
Six studies were included using either [(11)C]PK-11195 or another non-TSPO radioligand that binds to the monoaminooxidase B. All the studies evaluated amyloid load with [(11)C]PIB. Microglial activation and astrocytosis are potentially early phenomena in AD. However, the individual levels of amyloid deposition and microglial activation were not correlated.
Conclusion:
Noninvasive in vivo molecular imaging to visualize neuroinflammation in AD may contribute to our understanding of the kinetics of neuroinflammation and its relationship to the hallmarks of the disease. Both are important for the development of future therapeutic modalities and for quantifying the efficacy of future disease-modifying treatments.
Insights
Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging shows neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is not directly correlated with amyloid plaque levels. This highlights the potential of PET for tracking disease progression and treatment efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Medical Imaging
- Biomarkers
Background:
- Neuroinflammation is critical in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis.
- The link between neuroinflammation and beta-amyloid (Aβ) deposition in AD is not fully understood.
- Translocator protein (TSPO) PET ligands offer in vivo visualization of neuroinflammation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on PET imaging of neuroinflammation in AD.
- To investigate the relationship between in vivo neuroinflammation and amyloid load in AD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of PET imaging studies in AD subjects (2001-2012).
- Studies focused on in vivo neuroinflammation and amyloid load.
- Radioligands included TSPO-targeting and monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B) ligands.
Main Results:
- Six studies were included in the review.
- Amyloid load was assessed using [(11)C]PIB.
- No significant correlation was found between individual levels of amyloid deposition and microglial activation.
Conclusions:
- In vivo molecular imaging of neuroinflammation in AD is feasible.
- Understanding neuroinflammation's kinetics and relationship to AD hallmarks is crucial.
- PET imaging can aid in developing therapeutics and quantifying treatment efficacy.
