CD38-Targeted Molecular Imaging Probes for Multiple Myeloma: Advances, Challenges, and Opportunities
Meng Zheng1,2,3, Kaijie Zhang1,4, Huiwen Mu1,2
1Department of Clinical Pharmacology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, NO.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou 215006, China.
Molecular Pharmaceutics
|January 26, 2026
Summary
Molecular imaging targeting CD38 shows promise for multiple myeloma (MM) diagnosis and treatment. This approach allows for noninvasive monitoring of CD38 expression, aiding personalized patient management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiochemistry
- Molecular Imaging
Background:
- Multiple myeloma (MM) is a common hematologic malignancy often diagnosed late due to subtle early symptoms.
- CD38 is a key biomarker on malignant plasma cells, with its expression correlating negatively with patient outcomes.
- Accurate and dynamic measurement of CD38 is crucial for precise MM diagnosis and tailored treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in CD38-targeted molecular imaging probes for multiple myeloma.
- To highlight the potential of these probes in improving MM characterization and therapeutic monitoring.
- To discuss the role of these agents in personalized management strategies for MM patients.
Main Methods:
- Development of various CD38-targeted imaging agents, including antibodies, antibody fragments, nanobodies, and peptides.
- Utilizing radionuclide-based molecular imaging for noninvasive in vivo assessment of CD38 expression.
- Summarizing preclinical evaluations and early-phase clinical trials of these novel probes.
Main Results:
- CD38-targeted imaging enables repeated, in vivo assessments of CD38 expression.
- This allows for monitoring of molecular heterogeneity and temporal changes during MM progression or treatment.
- Several CD38-targeted probes are progressing through preclinical and early clinical development.
Conclusions:
- CD38-targeted molecular imaging offers a powerful tool for the noninvasive evaluation and management of multiple myeloma.
- These imaging agents have the potential to significantly enhance disease characterization and guide personalized treatment decisions.
- Further development and clinical application of these probes are expected to improve outcomes for MM patients.
Related Concept Videos
01:49Multiple Allele Traits
38.1K
The Concept of Multiple Allelism
38.1K
02:00Molecular Models
43.7K
Physical models representing molecular architectures of chemical compounds play essential roles in understanding chemistry. The use of molecular models makes it easier to visualize the structures and shapes of atoms and molecules.
43.7K
00:56Extraction: Advanced Methods
1.1K
Metal ions can be separated from one another by complexation with organic ligands–the chelating agent– to form uncharged chelates. Here, the chelating agent must contain hydrophobic groups and behave as a weak acid, losing a proton to bind with the metal. Since most organic ligands used in this process are insoluble or undergo oxidation in the aqueous phase, the chelating agent is initially added to the organic phase and extracted into the aqueous phase. The metal-ligand complex is...
1.1K
02:22Overview of Advanced Functional Groups
29.7K
Functional groups are groups of atoms with specific chemical properties that occur within organic molecules and are sometimes denoted as “R”. Functional groups can “functionalize” a compound by enabling it to adopt different physical and chemical properties.
Types of Advanced Functional Groups
The table below summarizes some of the major functional groups in organic chemistry.
29.7K
03:51Molecular Orbital Theory II
27.1K
Molecular Orbital Energy Diagrams
27.1K
02:54Molecular and Ionic Solids
20.0K
Crystalline solids are divided into four types: molecular, ionic, metallic, and covalent network based on the type of constituent units and their interparticle interactions.
Molecular Solids
Molecular crystalline solids, such as ice, sucrose (table sugar), and iodine, are solids that are composed of neutral molecules as their constituent units. These molecules are held together by weak intermolecular forces such as London dispersion forces, dipole-dipole interactions, or hydrogen bonds, which...
Molecular Solids
Molecular crystalline solids, such as ice, sucrose (table sugar), and iodine, are solids that are composed of neutral molecules as their constituent units. These molecules are held together by weak intermolecular forces such as London dispersion forces, dipole-dipole interactions, or hydrogen bonds, which...
20.0K