[18F]THK5351 uptake in multiple system atrophy compared with other parkinsonian disorders

Yoshihiko Horimoto1,2, Emi Hayashi3, Yoshihiro Ito3

  • 1Department of Neurology, Nagoya City Rehabilitation Center, Nagoya, Japan. holly@chojuken.net.

Journal of Neurology
|September 24, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Positron emission tomography using [18F]THK5351 shows higher uptake in the middle cerebellar peduncles in early multiple system atrophy (MSA). This finding may aid in diagnosing MSA and understanding its early pathology.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroimaging
  • Neurology
  • Medical Diagnostics

Background:

  • Early-stage multiple system atrophy (MSA) pathology is poorly understood.
  • Diagnosing early MSA presents significant clinical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize early-stage multiple system atrophy (MSA) using monoamine oxidase-B positron emission tomography (PET).
  • To investigate the diagnostic potential of [18F]THK5351 PET imaging in MSA.

Main Methods:

  • PET imaging with [18F]THK5351 was conducted on three early-stage MSA patients.
  • Findings were compared against patients with other parkinsonian disorders and healthy controls.

Main Results:

  • All three MSA patients exhibited significantly higher [18F]THK5351 uptake in the middle cerebellar peduncles.
  • This elevated uptake was distinct compared to other parkinsonian disorders and control groups (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

  • [18F]THK5351 PET imaging shows promise as a diagnostic tool for early MSA.
  • This imaging technique may elucidate the preclinical pathology within the middle cerebellar peduncle in MSA.