The role of factor analysis in the evaluation of new radiopharmaceuticals

Factor analysis of dynamic scintigraphic studies has been proposed for a variety of clinical applications. This method also called FADS (Factor Analysis of Dynamic Structures) enables spatial separation of complex images into discrete factors according to their time/activity characteristics. FADS, which does not require a priori formulation of a compartmental model of tracer kinetics, is particularly suitable for the evaluation of new radiolabeled compounds as potential radiopharmaceuticals. In animals as well as in humans it is possible to obtain information on the spatial time-distribution of tracers by analyzing computer acquired scintigraphic studies. On the basis of data obtained and analyzed with this method using [123I]IMP in humans, dogs, rabbits and rats, with two 99mTc labeled monoclonal antibodies in dogs and with 99mTc DTPA in renal transplants, we recommend this method as an adjunct in radiopharmaceutical development and evaluation.