Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor Imaging in Nonmalignant Diseases: A New Perspective for Molecular Imaging

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Medicine
• Molecular Imaging
• Oncology

Background:

• Fibroblast activation protein-α (FAP-α) is overexpressed in activated fibroblasts in tumors and fibrotic diseases.
• FAPI tracers enable PET imaging of FAP-α.
• Current research on FAPI imaging primarily focuses on cancer, with limited data on nonmalignant conditions.

Approach:

• Comprehensive review of existing literature on FAPI imaging in nonmalignant diseases.
• Analysis of current applications and potential future roles of FAPIs in nuclear medicine.
• Discussion of the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of FAPI imaging in benign conditions.

Key Points:

• FAPI imaging offers a novel approach for visualizing FAP-α in nonmalignant conditions.
• Evidence for FAPI imaging in nonmalignant diseases is emerging but still limited.
• This review consolidates current knowledge and highlights future research directions.

Conclusions:

• FAPI imaging holds significant potential for diagnosing and monitoring various nonmalignant diseases.
• Further research is needed to fully establish the clinical utility of FAPIs in benign conditions.
• FAPI imaging may expand the scope of molecular imaging beyond oncology.