Positron emission tomography. Biomedical research and clinical application

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Medical Imaging
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Positron emission tomography (PET) is a powerful imaging modality.
• Its applications span basic and clinical research, with a focus on neuroscience, particularly brain and heart studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the physics and chemistry of PET.
• To highlight its diverse applications in quantitative in vivo measurements.
• To outline its role in facilitating drug research.

Main Methods:

• Review of PET physics and chemistry.
• Description of quantitative in vivo measurement techniques.
• Examples of PET applications in neuroscience and drug research.

Main Results:

• PET enables quantitative assessment of metabolism, blood flow, and neurotransmitter properties in vivo.
• The technique is instrumental in advancing drug research and development.
• PET provides unique insights into human in vivo biochemistry.

Conclusions:

• Positron emission tomography is a versatile and essential tool in neurosciences and clinical research.
• Its ability to quantify biological processes in vivo makes it invaluable for both fundamental research and therapeutic development.