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Striatal 18F-dopa uptake: absence of an aging effect
D Eidelberg1, S Takikawa, V Dhawan
1Department of Neurology, North Shore University Hospital/Cornell University Medical College, Manhasset, NY 11030.
Summary
Quantitative positron emission tomography (PET) using L-[18F]6-Fluoro-DOPA (FDOPA) assesses brain dopamine function. This study found striatal FDOPA uptake values are not correlated with normal aging, regardless of the measurement method used.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Radiochemistry
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- L-[18F]6-Fluoro-DOPA (FDOPA) PET is utilized for assessing presynaptic nigrostriatal dopaminergic function.
- Conflicting reports exist regarding the relationship between striatal FDOPA uptake kinetics and normal aging.
- Methodological variations in previous studies have hindered definitive conclusions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between striatal FDOPA uptake kinetic rate constants [Ki(FDOPA)] and the normal aging process.
- To reconcile conflicting findings by applying multiple established FDOPA/PET methodologies.
- To determine if age significantly influences dopaminergic function as measured by FDOPA PET in healthy individuals.
Main Methods:
- Studied 19 healthy normal subjects across a wide age range (27-77 years).
- Measured striatal Ki(FDOPA) using several previously reported quantitative FDOPA/PET methods.
- Analyzed the correlation between estimated Ki(FDOPA) values and subject age.
Main Results:
- Significant correlations (p < 0.005) were observed between Ki(FDOPA) values derived from different measurement techniques.
- No significant correlation was found between striatal Ki(FDOPA) values and the normal aging process across the studied age range.
- Methodological differences did not alter the conclusion regarding the lack of age-related changes.
Conclusions:
- Quantitative FDOPA/PET-derived striatal Ki(FDOPA) values are uncorrelated with normal aging.
- The aging process does not appear to significantly alter presynaptic nigrostriatal dopaminergic function as measured by FDOPA uptake.
- Standardized methodologies in FDOPA/PET studies are crucial for consistent and reliable results, though the core finding of no age correlation remains consistent.