Articles tagged with Molecular Imaging
Munir Ghesani, MD, has been elected as president of SNMMI for his commitment to improving patient access to nuclear medicine scans. He plans to address issues such as reimbursement and regulatory approvals to grow the field of nuclear medicine.
Dmitry Beyder has been elected as the 2022-23 president-elect for the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Technologist Section (SNMMI-TS). As president-elect, Beyder will focus on guiding technologists out of the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthening the nuclear medicine technologist workforce and professional pipeline.
Krystle W. Glasgow has been elected as the 2022-23 president of the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging Technologist Section, aiming to increase membership and enhance communication and educational offerings for nuclear medicine technologists.
Dr. Simon R. Cherry received the 2022 Benedict Cassen Prize for his groundbreaking contributions to nuclear medicine instrumentation and molecular imaging. He was recognized for his pioneering advancements in small-animal PET, PET/MRI hybrid imaging, and total-body PET.
The SNMMI has launched the Mars Shot Fund to support innovative nuclear medicine and molecular imaging research. The fund aims to secure $100 million in funding and is currently at $600,000, following generous donations from individuals and organizations.
Andrei Iagaru has received the inaugural Sam Gambhir Trailblazer Award from the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) for his outstanding contributions to transformative research and exceptional mentorship. He is recognized for his work in PET/MRI, PET/CT, and targeted radionuclide therapy.
A new PET imaging agent, 18F-AlF-FAPI-74, has been found to effectively monitor and predict treatment response of an up-and-coming cancer therapy. This non-invasive imaging approach can help inform clinical decision-making early in the course of treatment.
Researchers developed an artificial intelligence method to generate high-quality 'PET/CT' images, reducing radiation exposure and allowing for more frequent imaging. This innovation has the potential to provide more accurate assessment of disease progression and treatment efficacy, ultimately improving patient care.
A new ultra-low dose PET technique eliminates the need for a CT scan, significantly reducing patient radiation exposure. The technique uses background radiation to reconstruct attenuation maps and quantitative PET images, with an average organ quantitative error of 4.8-10 percent.
A study using PET imaging found that severe obstructive sleep apnea is associated with abnormal heart blood flow reserve, increasing the risk of heart disease. The findings suggest that cardiac PET imaging can identify high-risk OSA patients.
A novel somatostatin-receptor targeting peptide has shown excellent imaging in patients with meningiomas, identifying previously undetected lesions. The new agent offers significant logistical advantages, including a longer half-life and large-scale production capabilities.
A study using PET/CT revealed that residual COVID-19 symptoms can be attributed to ongoing lung inflammation. Treatment with steroids and antifibrotic drugs significantly decreased inflammatory activity.
Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a cobalt-based molecule that can detect extremely subtle temperature shifts inside the body, opening up new possibilities for medical imaging and therapy. The noninvasive probe uses radiofrequency waves to read out temperature signals from the body.
The JNM Molecular Imaging of Neurodegeneration Supplement provides an overview of molecular imaging techniques in neurodegenerative disorders. The supplement aims to improve early and differential diagnosis, as well as stratify and monitor therapy in these disorders.
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital developed scission-accelerated fluorophore exchange (SAFE) to visualize molecules in living cells without disrupting normal physiological processes. The method uses immunofluorescence tags and fast chemical reactions to remove tags, creating a multi-color movie-like continuous stream of ima...
A team of researchers has combined expansion microscopy and stimulated Raman scattering microscopy to create a new imaging technique called MAGNIFIERS. This allows for the high-resolution imaging of biomolecules, including proteins, lipids, and DNA, at the nanoscale.
Researchers at the Beckman Institute found a direct link between high-fat diets and heightened nitric oxide levels, which can lead to increased risk of inflammation and cancer development. The study used a molecular probe to visualize changes in the tumor microenvironment.
A study found that higher levels of active brown adipose tissue are associated with early metabolic dysfunction and pre-cooling glucose, insulin, thyroid stimulating hormone, and triglyceride levels. Activated brown fat was recruited to counteract 'pre-prediabetic' states, potentially serving as a first-line protective mechanism.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new technique called evanescent scattering microscopy (ESM), which allows for the visualization of proteins and other vital biomolecules with unparalleled clarity. This label-free imaging method reduces light-induced heating and requires no fluorescent dye or gold coating, making...
Researchers developed a new way to apply antireflective coatings to 3D printed micro-optical systems, reducing light losses and improving imaging quality. The low-temperature coating technique can be used for applications such as miniature fiber endoscopes and virtual reality devices.
The latest neurophotonic tools and techniques are reviewed in a new status report, covering advances from molecular nanoprobes to cortical column imaging. The report provides an overview of current state and future directions for brain science research.
A team of UTHealth Houston researchers has been awarded a $2.85 million NIH grant to study a new technique assessing cerebrospinal fluid in babies with hydrocephalus, which affects 400,000 newborns globally each year.
A new deep learning method, PDD-Net, uses 3D deep convolutional neural networks to extract deep metabolic imaging indices from PET scans for differential diagnosis of parkinsonian diseases. The method achieved high sensitivity and specificity rates for Parkinson's disease and other parkinsonian syndromes.
A new Raman spectroscopy system allows for real-time molecular imaging of near-surface tissue, providing detailed biochemical distributions for disease tissue differentiation. The technique offers high spatial resolution and can be used for clinical diagnostics and molecular boundary demarcation.
A novel nuclear medicine combination therapy combining <sup> 177 </sup> Lu-PSMA-617 with idronoxil (NOX66) has been shown to be safe and effective in reducing PSA levels by over 50% in men with metastatic prostate cancer. The median overall survival was 19.7 months, suggesting potential for improved patient outcomes.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new model to aid interpretation of atomic resolution molecular images. The Z-correlated molecular model accurately fits imaging data and helps chemists analyze electron microscope images without theoretical calculations.
A comprehensive literature review of molecular imaging findings indicates that COVID-19 neurological complications such as fatigue and cognitive impairment are often reversible. The study identifies important implications for other neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers have developed a new imaging technique using X-ray lasers to capture high-resolution images of complex single molecules. The technique, known as Coulomb explosion imaging, uses ultra-bright X-ray flashes to explode the molecule and reconstruct its image.
Researchers at the European XFEL facility have taken pictures of gas-phase iodopyridine molecules at atomic resolution using ultra-bright X-ray pulses. The images were reconstructed from the fragments caused by a Coulomb explosion, providing unprecedented clarity for this method and molecule size.
Researchers developed a vortex microscope that captures detailed motion and rotation of molecules in liquid. The technique provides unprecedented insight into molecular dynamics, enabling the study of diseases like Alzheimer's.
Researchers at OHSU are developing a new approach to scientific imaging to study the dynamic organization of cells by examining how tiny molecules make cells work. The W. M. Keck Foundation has awarded $1 million to develop a one-of-a-kind imaging and computational system.
Scientists at Weill Cornell Medicine developed a new imaging technique to capture bacteriorhodopsin's motions in response to light on a millisecond time scale. This study reveals the protein's kinetics, including the speed of transitions between open and closed states, which informs optogenetics research.
Samuel Galgano and Pankaj Gupta have been named the 2022 Melvin M. Figley Fellow in Radiology Journalism and the 2022 Lee F. Rogers International Fellow in Radiology Journalism, respectively. They will attend the 2022 ARRS Annual Meeting and participate in the Editor’s Forum.
A new study confirms the accuracy of the European Association of Urology (EAU) risk classification system for prostate cancer patients, using PSMA PET imaging to identify subgroups with varying disease risks. High-risk groups showed higher metastatic disease rates, while low-risk groups had undetectable or distant metastases.
A new PET/CT artificial intelligence model has been developed to predict the risk of future heart attacks with improved accuracy. By combining information from PET and CT angiography, the model provides a more robust prediction of heart attack risk than clinical data alone.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has published appropriate use criteria (AUC) for prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET imaging. The guidelines provide a framework for healthcare providers to determine the most effective use of PSMA PET scans in patients with suspected or known prostate cancer.
Researchers have mapped the atomic structure of amphotericin B, a powerful but toxic antifungal agent. The detailed structure reveals how the drug kills fungal cells by robbing them of sterol molecules, providing a roadmap for synthesizing less-toxic derivatives.
Heidelberg researchers have created a rapid process for 3D imaging of cells using soft X-ray tomography, enabling high-resolution images in just five to ten minutes. This technology provides valuable insights into viral diseases and their impact on infected cells.
A SUTD-led study develops brighter, more sensitive fluorophores by suppressing twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) and enhancing photon-induced electron transfer (PET). The research provides design guidelines for dye chemists to rationally tune TICT, PET, and other mechanisms for a wide range of applications.
A new type of PRRT, <sup> 177 </sup> Lu-DOTA-LM3, has been shown to be safe and effective in treating neuroendocrine neoplasms. The therapy achieved complete remission in some patients and was well-tolerated by most patients.
Researchers at the University of Illinois created a novel device using microscopic fluorescent diamonds to calibrate sensitive microscopy systems. The nanodiamonds' stability and longevity make them ideal as a 'first-aid kit' for microscopes, allowing for easy reuse and quality control.
A recent study suggests that Long-COVID symptoms, such as cognitive deficits and fatigue, may be attributed to fatigue rather than pathological changes in the brain. Neuroimaging results showed no significant differences in cerebral glucose metabolism or brain pathology between patients with long-COVID and healthy controls.
Scientists at UNC School of Medicine have developed a method to pinpoint and track proteins in specific shapes or conformations within living cells. This 'binder-tag' technique allows researchers to visualize protein dynamics in real-time, enabling the study of normal biology and diseases.
Researchers developed a non-toxic, small-molecule probe that provides real-time visualization of disease progression, overcoming limitations of MRI and PET imaging. The probe binds copper ions and detects dysregulated levels, accurately identifying Wilson's disease and other maladies.
A study published in The Journal of Nuclear Medicine found that PSMA PET/CT is more accurate than conventional CT in detecting hepatocellular carcinoma metastases. This led to a change in management plans for nearly half of the patients, enabling them to receive effective treatment.
A new PET imaging agent has been shown to solve 87% of diagnostic dilemmas in breast cancer patients, providing valuable information for personalized treatment decision-making. The agent's ability to visualize estrogen receptor expression across the body may improve patient outcomes and support broader implementation in clinical practice.
A promising radionuclide treatment has been identified for HER2-positive breast cancer patients, combining radioactive iodine therapy with single-domain antibodies targeting the HER2 antigen. The treatment demonstrates safety and efficacy in a phase I study, paving the way for further clinical development.
Researchers at Rice University have refined models to analyze gadolinium-based contrast agents, which are used in 40% of MRIs worldwide. The team's goal is to design better and more customizable contrast agents that improve image quality while minimizing risks.
A new system developed at Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory determines the 3D structures of RNA-only molecules with high resolution, applying it to a ribozyme from pond scum and a piece of viral RNA from SARS-CoV-2. The study reveals tiny pockets in the viral RNA that could be targeted for COVID-19 treatments.
Researchers developed a topical fluorescent imaging agent targeting PARP1 enzyme in cervical cancer cells, enabling real-time detection with handheld microscopes. This non-invasive method could revolutionize cervical cancer screenings and biopsies, especially in low-resource areas.
A new radiotracer, 18F-TRX, has been developed to measure iron concentration in tumors, predicting treatment response. The agent successfully distinguished between tumor types and identified those likely to respond to iron-targeted therapies.
The uEXPLORER total-body PET/CT scanner has been evaluated for its performance exceeding industry standards with ultra-high sensitivity and excellent spatial resolution. The study also proposed new phantom measurements to characterize long-AFOV scanners, enabling the testing of their performance in improving patient care.
The study found that 68Ga-FAPI PET/CT imaging can improve restaging of disease in more than half of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, particularly those with local recurrence. This new imaging modality may help detect new or clarify inconclusive results obtained by standard CT imaging.
Researchers found deficits in neuronal function and cognitive impairment in newly diagnosed COVID-19 patients, with some impairments continuing six months after diagnosis. PET brain scans showed a significant recovery of regional neuronal function and cognition in most patients.
Researchers developed a novel PET tracer to detect abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) and predict rupture risk. The tracer, targeting chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2), showed safety and effectiveness in diagnosing AAAs and assessing treatment response.
A phase III clinical trial validates the effectiveness of 18F-DCFPyL in detecting and localizing recurrent prostate cancer, achieving high positive predictive values across various regions. The study's results support the use of PSMA-targeted radiotracers as the most sensitive and accurate agents for imaging prostate cancer.
Dr. Thomas J. Ruth is recognized for his significant contributions to nuclear medicine, including the development of radioisotopes for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. He has been a leader in radiopharmaceutical sciences for over four decades and has mentored numerous scientists in the field.
Dr. Larson has been named recipient of the prestigious Paul C. Aebersold Award for his contributions to cancer imaging and radionuclide therapy. He is a world-renowned expert in radiopharmaceutical therapy and molecular imaging.
Research found that lipophilic statins double the risk of developing dementia in patients with mild cognitive impairment. PET scans revealed a decline in brain metabolism, particularly in the posterior cingulate cortex.
The Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI) has announced 17 new Fellows, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the field. The newly elected Fellows include experts who have demonstrated excellence in scientific discovery, educational efforts, and clinical practice.