Articles tagged with Molecular Imaging
Researchers demonstrate preclinically that dual-labeled PSMA-inhibitors improve preoperative staging and intra-operative guidance for metastatic prostate cancer patients. This combined approach results in more accurate detection of PSMA-positive tumor lesions, enhancing patient outcomes.
A new imaging test, Ga-68 PSMA PET/CT, has been shown to detect cancer that conventional imaging missed, changing treatment plans for 51% of patients. The test also improved management for patients with recurrent disease, with 69% receiving radiation therapy and 64% undergoing surgery.
Researchers found that dual-agent PET/MR with time of flight detects more bone metastases in breast and prostate cancer patients, improving detection accuracy and reducing radiation dose. The study used combined imaging agents <sup>18</sup> F-FDG and <sup>18</sup> F-NaF to enhance image quality.
A new study demonstrates the feasibility and safety of HuMab-5B1, an antibody that targets the cancer antigen 19-9, found on pancreatic tumors and other malignancies. The treatment shows promise for better identifying tumors and directing treatment.
A single dual time-point PET scan can identify two important biomarkers of Alzheimer's disease: neuronal injury and amyloid load. This non-invasive method shows promise for early diagnosis and personalized treatment.
Researchers found that combining peptide-receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) with a PARP inhibitor significantly slows the growth of neuroendocrine tumors. The treatment combination induced more cell death and inhibited cell proliferation in both gastroenteropancreatic and bronchopulmonary NET cell lines.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging recognized seven new SNMMI Fellows for their distinguished service and exceptional achievements in the field. The fellows include past SNMMI presidents, renowned experts, and leaders in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging.
Researchers developed a personalized peptide-receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) approach, which increased the radiation dose to tumors by up to three times. The treatment showed reduced side effects and improved safety profiles without compromising therapeutic benefits.
The grants will support pre-clinical and clinical diagnostic and therapeutic research, including the development of new imaging agents and clinical trials on therapy safety and efficacy. The Brain SAFTIE initiative aims to identify gaps in existing knowledge and facilitate collaboration among experts.
Fowler has made significant contributions to brain research, developing the radiotracer F-18-FDG to measure brain glucose metabolism non-invasively in humans. Her work has facilitated advances in the study of the human brain and malignant tumor detection.
Pomper is recognized for his work on developing new imaging agents targeting cancer and central nervous system processes. He oversees several federally funded programs at Johns Hopkins, advancing the field of molecular imaging.
A study found that brain receptors involved in addiction adapt to chronic drinking by reducing their bioavailability, but return to normal after detoxification. This can serve as a predictor of long-term sobriety success.
Researchers developed a scanner that unites optical, radioluminescence, and photoacoustic imaging to evaluate thin-cap fibro atheroma (TCFA) in the earliest stages. This could lead to a paradigm shift in coronary artery disease diagnosis and assessment.
Researchers demonstrated the efficacy of targeted photodynamic therapy (tPDT) to treat prostate cancer before and during surgery, using a PSMA-targeting agent coupled with photosensitizers. The technique optimizes prostate cancer care by allowing visualization of tumors prior to surgery and providing real-time guidance to surgeons.
Experts argue against the linear no-threshold hypothesis, citing evidence of adaptive responses that repair mutations or remove damaged cells. The authors suggest that diagnostic quality and accurate information are more important than erring on the side of caution in reducing radiation exposure.
Researchers develop new protocol using PaCO2 to amplify myocardial blood flow, offering an alternative to injectable pharmacological agents. The study shows a safe and effective method for widening heart blood vessels during stress tests, benefiting patients with severe side effects from traditional methods.
Researchers have developed a new technique using Cerenkov luminescence imaging (CLI) to assess tumor margins during breast tumor surgery. This method combines optical and molecular imaging, providing high-resolution images of the tumor and surrounding tissue.
Researchers developed a dual-modality imaging technique using SPECT/CT and fluorescence to detect micrometastases in colorectal cancer. This approach can guide resection of tumor lesions and potentially improve prognosis for cancer patients.
Researchers used PET/CT scans to determine the potential effectiveness of bevacizumab treatment in children with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG). The study found that non-invasive imaging can help predict therapeutic potential and toxicity, paving the way for personalized medicine approaches.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) has published appropriate use criteria for ventilation/perfusion imaging in pulmonary embolism. The guidelines aim to promote cost-effective and appropriate utilization of advanced diagnostic imaging services, affecting approximately 300,000 Americans each year.
Cytomegalovirus has evolved to hide from the immune system by presenting decoy markers, tricking NK cells into thinking infected cells are healthy. The immune system responds by evolving new mechanisms to detect and kill the virus, including a molecule called NK1.1.
Researchers developed new engineered PET tracers to image immune checkpoint expression in cancer cells, enabling monitoring of targeted immunotherapy. The study shows practical immunoPET radiotracer design modifications and their effects on human PD-L1 immune checkpoint imaging.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has published appropriate use criteria (AUC) for bone scintigraphy in patients with prostate or breast cancer. The new AUC aim to improve healthcare outcomes by making the use of bone scintigraphy more consistent and reducing unnecessary imaging costs.
Researchers found that Fluciclovine PET/CT significantly improved targeted therapy for recurrent prostate cancer by defining tumor-targeted areas. The treatment led to higher radiation doses to the penile bulb without increased toxicity.
Researchers develop a new PET radiotracer that can quickly identify life-threatening atherosclerotic plaques by detecting inflammation. This breakthrough has the potential to prevent heart attacks and strokes by allowing for early treatment of atherosclerosis.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology have developed a new technique to visualize molecular distributions on rippled, hairy, or bulgy surfaces. The 'corrective glass' method uses laser ablation electrospray ionization (LAESI) to correct for surface topography and provide accurate chemical imaging.
A new gallium-68 labeled peptide BBN-RGD agent has been developed to target both gastrin-releasing peptide receptor and integrin αvβ3, providing dual-receptor targeting and advantages over single-receptor targeting. The agent has shown safety and effectiveness in detecting primary and metastatic prostate cancer lesions.
Researchers have developed an image analysis technique called Hyper-Spectral Phasor (HySP) that can track multiple molecules in living organisms, making it easier to diagnose diseases and identify therapeutic targets. The new technology uses cell phone images and is faster and less expensive than current methods.
Researchers argue that the linear no-threshold hypothesis, which suggests all radiation is harmful, is inaccurate and has led to widespread fear of low-dose radiation. Studies show that low doses stimulate protective responses, reducing cancer risk rather than increasing it.
A German multicenter study confirms the efficacy and safety of Lu-177-PSMA-617 radioligand therapy for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, demonstrating a positive response rate of 45% and manageable side effects. The treatment offers an additional option for end-stage patients with high response rates and low toxicity.
Molecular imaging techniques have the potential to revolutionize cancer diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment by providing non-invasive alternatives to traditional biopsies. By identifying specific biomarkers, these methods can help doctors choose the most effective treatments, minimize side effects, and predict patient outcomes.
Researchers developed low-cost 3D printed organ models of varying size and shape to aid in determining optimal dosing for individual patients. The study demonstrates the potential of 3D printing technology for clinical prototyping, particularly in quantitative SPECT/CT imaging.
A novel imaging agent, Zr-89-Df-IAB2M, has been shown to detect metastasis of prostate cancer in both bone and soft tissue lesions with high accuracy. The agent targets PSMA on the exterior of prostate cancer cells, allowing for faster and more accurate detection than conventional methods.
Researchers have successfully used PET imaging to visualize cardiac amyloidosis, a condition characterized by abnormal protein deposits in the heart. The study showed that F-18-florbetaben PET imaging can accurately identify and differentiate between cardiac amyloidosis and hypertensive heart disease.
The study demonstrates the effectiveness of activity-based probes in detecting early signs of atherosclerosis. By targeting cysteine cathepsins, the probes image activated macrophage populations using optical and PET/CT methods, providing real-time monitoring of disease progression and therapeutic responses.
Researchers developed a new radiotracer that safely and effectively maps sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer patients. The study demonstrated the tracer's ability to provide clear SLN imaging with high detection rates.
The SNMMI-TS awarded Lynne Roy, Crystal Botkin, David Campbell, Marcia Hess Smith, Deborah Gibbs, Dmitry D. Beyder, and Aaron Scott for their exceptional contributions to the field of nuclear medicine technology, including education, service, and leadership.
SNMMI recognized Peter Herscovitch and Satoshi Minoshima for their contributions to the field of nuclear medicine through various awards. Dominique Delbeke received the Presidential Distinguished Educator Award for her work as editor of The Journal of Nuclear Medicine.
Researchers have developed a new device that enables existing breast cancer imagers to provide up to six times better contrast of tumors in the breast while maintaining the same or better image quality. The Variable Angle Slant Hole Collimator reduces radiation dose to patients by half, potentially improving imaging of other organs.
A new study by the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging shows that PET/CT imaging using prostate-specific membrane antigen leads to highly accurate tumor detection and delineation, with a 67% accuracy rate.
A novel PET imaging study reveals a significant correlation between increased tau and decreased metabolic activity in the brains of living Alzheimer's patients, indicating clear signs of neurodegeneration. The study measures amyloid plaques, tau tangles, and metabolic activity using three different radiotracers.
A novel CT-based calculation method, SULps, accurately measures lean body mass using computed tomography, leading to more precise PET imaging results. This improvement enables better staging of disease and therapy monitoring in cancer patients.
The novel portable diagnostic tool offers a multi-dimensional look at the body by combining optical and gamma imaging, allowing physicians to visualize molecular data alongside surface organ images. Clinical pilot studies have shown promising results in imaging lymphatic and thyroid tissue, as well as tear ducts.
Researchers used FDG-PET imaging to monitor atezolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor, in NSCLC patients. The study found that higher baseline tumor volumes were predictive of reduced patient survival, and further increase in tumor volume after treatment was associated with decreased survival.
Researchers used PET and SPECT to tailor radionuclide treatment for neuroendocrine cancer patients, reducing the risk of toxicity. The study showed that personalized dosimetry led to a significant alteration in radiotherapy doses, with some patients receiving reduced or increased doses.
The Education and Research Foundation for Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging honored Dr. H. William Strauss with the 2016 Benedict Cassen Prize for his seminal studies in cardiovascular nuclear medicine. This award recognizes his work that has greatly advanced nuclear medicine science and had a high clinical impact.
A new PET study reveals that tau protein tangles in the brain may be driving the neurodegeneration behind Alzheimer's disease. The research found a significant correlation between increased tau and decreased metabolic activity in the brain, suggesting that tau imaging could be used to detect neuronal injury earlier than amyloid imaging.
Ross McDougall, a renowned Stanford professor, has been honored with the 2016 Georg Charles de Hevesy Nuclear Pioneer Award for his groundbreaking work in nuclear medicine. With over 160 peer-reviewed publications and three textbooks on thyroid disease, he has made significant contributions to advancing the field of nuclear medicine.
A recent study using PET/CT imaging found that the brains of recovering alcoholics have adapted to chemical dependency by significantly hindering metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGluR5) receptors, reducing cravings. This discovery could lead to new targeted drugs to limit receptor activity in patients at risk of relapse.
Peter S. Conti, MD, PhD, receives the prestigious Paul C. Aebersold Award for his groundbreaking work in developing novel diagnostic imaging agents for oncology applications. His research focuses on PET imaging and gene expression, advancing the field of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging.
Researchers developed pretargeted radioimmunotherapy, combining an anti-GPA33 antibody with radionuclide agents to deliver radiation directly to tumors. In mouse models, the technique achieved complete remission of colorectal cancer without collateral toxicity.
A genetic blood test called NETest measures specific genes in the blood that define and predict responsiveness to PRRT. The test was found to be more than 90% accurate in predicting therapy response and non-response, with 73% of low-grade tumors responding to treatment.
Researchers developed PET tracers that can visualize inflammatory disease and evaluate next-generation MS therapies. The study found that the compounds could detect an increase in S1P1 expression in animals with an inflammatory response, suggesting a promising approach for imaging MS and other inflammatory diseases.
A recent study found that Ga-68 DOTATATE PET/CT scans are superior to In-111 pentetreotide scans in detecting neuroendocrine tumors, leading to improved treatment management and patient outcomes. The imaging method demonstrated no significant toxicity, lower radiation exposure, and increased accuracy.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Liverpool analyzed data from 157 ecstasy users and 148 controls to examine the effect of ecstasy on the brain. The study found significant reductions in serotonin transport in ecstasy users, which may contribute to cognitive deficits and mood changes.
Researchers have developed a pill that can selectively target cancer cells, providing clearer images and reducing the risk of false positives. The oral agent uses near-infrared light to bind to tumors, allowing for more accurate diagnoses and potentially leading to improved treatment outcomes.
Researchers found that genetics play a major role in the bilateral parietal lobes and left temporal lobe, while environment dominates other brain regions. This study provides insights into how nature and environment interact to shape our brains, potentially informing the development of neurological and psychiatric disorders.
A recent study shows that a PET/CT scan using F-18-DCFBC is significantly more effective in detecting metastatic prostate cancer than other detection methods. The radiotracer targets prostate-specific membrane antigen, which is expressed in the majority of prostate cancers and associated with metastatic spread.
A recent study found that PET/CT and whole-body MRI detect extraskeletal disease, changing cancer management. Combined administration of F-18 sodium fluoride (NaF) and F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) in a single PET/CT scan showed higher sensitivity and accuracy than alternative methods.
A new class of light-emitting quantum dots has been introduced, enabling precise control over their fluorescence brightness across a range of colors. This innovation allows for more accurate measurements of molecules in diseased tissue and improved quantitative imaging capabilities.