Table of Contents
Overview
Definition and Importance
Molecular imaging (MI) is the visual representation, characterization, and quantification of biological processes at the cellular and subcellular level, allowing the study of molecular and cellular events within intact living organisms, including humans.[2.1] This emerging technology operates at the intersection of life sciences and physical sciences, promising to revolutionize our understanding and treatment of diseases by providing insights beyond traditional anatomical imaging methods.[9.1] The significance of molecular imaging lies in its ability to visualize and quantitatively measure biological and cellular processes in vivo, which is critical for advancing personalized medicine.[7.1] Unlike conventional imaging techniques that focus on anatomical structures, molecular imaging detects previously undetectable molecules and develops functional contrast agents to provide information about cellular activities in both health and disease.[6.1] Current applications include various imaging modalities such as positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and optical imaging, which utilize specific contrast agents to track biological processes in real-time.[3.1] Ongoing research focuses on enhancing the specificity and sensitivity of these techniques, improving the diagnosis and monitoring of diseases.[9.1] Overall, molecular imaging represents a transformative approach in medical diagnostics and therapeutic monitoring, with the potential to significantly impact patient care and outcomes.Applications in Medicine
Molecular imaging has emerged as a pivotal tool in various medical applications, particularly in oncology, where it enhances diagnostic accuracy and patient management. The field has evolved significantly since the term was coined in the late 1990s, providing insights into biological processes at the molecular and cellular levels, which are crucial for understanding disease mechanisms and improving treatment outcomes.[15.1] One of the primary applications of molecular imaging is in the early detection of cancer. Molecular imaging biomarkers facilitate non-invasive diagnosis at early stages, which is essential for improving patient outcomes.[16.1] Techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET) combined with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offer comprehensive data that integrates molecular, functional, and morphological information from a single scan, thereby enhancing the diagnostic process.[20.1] Furthermore, the integration of molecular imaging with therapeutic approaches, known as theranostics, has revolutionized cancer treatment. This combination allows for personalized treatment plans based on the specific molecular characteristics of a patient's tumor, leading to more effective interventions.[21.1] For instance, immuno-PET utilizes radio-labeled antibodies to provide high-resolution images that can track immune responses and assess the effectiveness of therapies in real-time, thereby improving cancer patient management.[22.1] In addition to oncology, molecular imaging is also being applied in other areas of medicine, including the development of personalized medicine strategies. The use of patient-derived cell and organoid 'avatars' helps in determining the most effective therapies tailored to individual patients, taking into account genetic variations and other factors.[10.1] This personalized approach is further supported by advances in imaging agents, such as peptide-based probes, which are designed to target specific biological markers, enhancing the precision of imaging and treatment.[13.1]In this section:
History
Emergence of Molecular Imaging
The emergence of molecular imaging can be traced back to significant advancements in medical imaging technologies throughout the 20th century. Early techniques, such as colorimetric stains like Coomassie Blue and silver stain, were considered the gold standards in protein medical imaging. Coomassie Blue, developed from an acid wool dye in the late 19th century, exemplifies the foundational methods that paved the way for more sophisticated imaging techniques.[55.1] The development of imaging modalities such as X-rays, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) marked critical milestones in the evolution of molecular imaging. The discovery of X-rays in 1895 and subsequent innovations, including the first human MRI body scan in 1977 and the PET camera in 1974, significantly enhanced the ability to visualize biological processes.[57.1] These advancements allowed for the visualization of changes at the cellular level, particularly in diseases like cancer, where molecular imaging agents target specific disease-selective ligands.[49.1] In the latter half of the 20th century, the integration of nuclear medicine techniques and the development of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy further propelled the field. The nuclear medicine program, which spanned from the 1940s to the 1990s, was instrumental in funding and advancing these technologies.[48.1] As a result, modern molecular imaging techniques began to incorporate multimodal imaging approaches, combining optical imaging with other contrast agents used in CT, MRI, PET, or SPECT, thereby enhancing the diagnostic capabilities of these modalities.[45.1] Current research in molecular imaging focuses on developing targeted contrast agents that provide detailed information about cellular activities in both health and disease. This includes efforts to create imaging methods capable of detecting previously undetectable molecules and expanding the range of available contrast agents.[49.1] The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies has further transformed the field, improving image acquisition, analysis, and the management of contrast agents.[53.1] These advancements underscore the ongoing evolution of molecular imaging as a critical frontier in medical diagnostics and research.Recent Advancements
Technological Innovations
Recent advancements in molecular imaging have been significantly influenced by innovations in contrast agent design, which enhance the specificity and sensitivity of imaging techniques. Molecular imaging is defined as the visual representation, characterization, and quantification of biological processes at the cellular and subcellular levels, utilizing various imaging modalities such as positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and optical imaging.[87.1] The development of sophisticated contrast agents, which consist of a targeting component (e.g., antibody, peptide, or small molecule) and a label for imaging readout, has been pivotal in improving the detection of molecular targets.[89.1] Recent innovations include the emergence of intramolecular hydrogen bonding-based chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI contrast agents, which offer enhanced sensitivity and specificity for assessing tissue acidity levels, thereby addressing limitations in traditional imaging methods.[107.1] Additionally, advancements in the design of MRI contrast agents based on the T2 exchange mechanism have improved specificity for detecting intended targets due to their slower chemical exchange rates.[105.1] The incorporation of nanostructures and nanoparticles into contrast agent design has also shown promise, as these materials can be engineered to include various contrast-generating properties while maintaining biocompatibility and functionality.[108.1] Furthermore, the targeting moiety of contrast agents plays a crucial role in determining their specificity and sensitivity. It is essential that the targeted biomarker is sufficiently abundant and specific to the disease stage being examined to yield adequate image contrast.[106.1] The development of agents like ProCA32, which possess strong biomarker-binding affinity and stability, exemplifies the trend towards creating highly specific imaging agents for chronic diseases.[109.1] These technological innovations in molecular imaging not only facilitate early disease detection and therapy monitoring but also provide spatial information that is critical for imaging-guided biopsies and therapies.[110.1] As molecular imaging continues to evolve alongside advancements in cancer biology and targeted therapies, it is poised to offer increasingly sensitive approaches for cancer detection, staging, and monitoring therapeutic responses.[111.1]New Imaging Modalities
Recent advancements in molecular imaging have introduced cutting-edge modalities that enhance disease detection and characterization at the molecular level. A significant development is the integration of positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT), which merges functional and anatomical imaging to improve diagnostic precision. Innovations in PET-CT, including artificial intelligence and novel radiotracers, have refined its clinical applications, particularly in cancer detection and monitoring [101.1]. Multiplexed imaging mass cytometry (IMC) has emerged as a powerful tool for assessing spatial proteomics in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues. This technique allows for the simultaneous visualization of multiple molecular targets, offering a comprehensive understanding of cellular interactions and disease mechanisms. The insights gained from IMC are instrumental in Molecular Tumor Boards for personalized treatment planning [99.1]. Advancements in MRI technology have enhanced soft-tissue contrast, aiding in the identification of regions of interest in PET images that lack anatomical details. The combination of PET and MRI (PET/MRI) provides complementary functional and anatomical insights, improving the detection and characterization of diseases at a molecular level [100.1]. These imaging modalities not only facilitate early disease detection but also play a crucial role in personalized medicine by enabling the selection of targeted therapies based on specific molecular characteristics of tumors. Molecular imaging biomarkers have shown promise in early cancer detection, offering greater accuracy than conventional methods [91.1]. As these technologies evolve, they are expected to further transform disease diagnosis and treatment.Molecular Imaging Techniques
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a prominent molecular imaging modality that plays a critical role in the assessment of targeted therapies in oncology. Its sensitivity is significantly higher than that of conventional imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT), allowing for the precise measurement of targeted expression or activity of gene products, which is essential for predicting the effects of targeted therapies.[135.1] PET is particularly valuable in the context of personalized medicine, where it aids in selecting disease- and patient-specific therapeutic treatments by detecting diseases at early stages and identifying the extent of disease.[137.1] The integration of PET with molecular imaging has enhanced the understanding of cellular processes in various diseases, particularly in cancer. For instance, immunohistochemistry for estrogen receptor (ER) expression in breast cancer exemplifies how molecular imaging can forecast tumor aggressivity and response to estrogen pathway therapies.[133.1] Additionally, PET has been instrumental in guiding the use of modern therapies for hematologic malignancies, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, by facilitating the application of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells and bispecific antibodies targeting specific cell surface markers.[133.1] Moreover, the application of PET in evaluating treatment response and related clinical outcomes is increasingly recognized. Future advancements in this field are expected to focus on promoting the clinical translation of molecular imaging techniques, particularly in assessing sensitivity to targeted therapies using biocompatible probes.[136.1] The stratification based on imaging biomarkers, including those identified through PET, can significantly enhance the identification of individuals suited for preventive interventions and improve disease staging.[152.1] Thus, PET not only contributes to the understanding of disease mechanisms but also plays a pivotal role in the development and optimization of targeted therapies in clinical practice.Clinical Applications
Cancer Detection and Treatment
Molecular imaging plays a crucial role in the detection and treatment of cancer, utilizing various advanced imaging techniques to visualize and characterize biological processes at the cellular and subcellular levels. Techniques such as positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound are integral to clinical applications, allowing for the identification of specific receptor sites associated with target molecules that characterize disease processes.[165.1] Recent advancements in molecular imaging have significantly enhanced the accuracy of cancer diagnosis and treatment planning. For instance, a study involving 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT demonstrated a sensitivity of 87.5% and specificity of 95.2% for diagnosing renal oncocytomas and hybrid oncocytic/chromophobe tumors.[164.1] Furthermore, the integration of multimodality imaging, such as PET combined with CT or MRI, provides comprehensive molecular, functional, and morphological data from a single scan, thereby improving diagnostic capabilities.[170.1] The evolution of nuclear medicine into a modern specialty of molecular imaging has been marked by the development of specific radioactive probes that target known molecular processes.[175.1] This shift has been complemented by innovations in radiopharmaceuticals, which have been approved for clinical use, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of imaging techniques.[174.1] The incorporation of novel digital detectors and advanced radiochemistry has further propelled the field forward, allowing for more accurate imaging and treatment strategies.[174.1] In oncology, the application of machine learning algorithms to radiomic data is emerging as a promising approach to improve predictive modeling, thereby enhancing patient outcomes.[168.1] Additionally, the combination of molecular imaging with genomic and molecular profiling is paving the way for personalized medicine, enabling tailored treatment strategies that are more effective for individual patients.[168.1] Moreover, specific imaging techniques, such as photoacoustic imaging-guided biopsy, have demonstrated the ability to simultaneously visualize functional and molecular contrasts, thereby improving the yield of image-guided biopsies and influencing clinical decisions.[185.1] As the field continues to evolve, the integration of artificial intelligence and real-time intravital imaging is expected to further enhance the detection, monitoring, and treatment of cancers, underscoring the transformative potential of molecular imaging in oncology.[171.1]In this section:
Future Directions
Integration with Personalized Medicine
The integration of molecular imaging technologies with personalized medicine is poised to significantly enhance cancer treatment strategies. Molecular imaging, through modalities such as PET, MRI, and ultrasound, plays a crucial role in the early diagnosis and characterization of tumors, which is essential for tailoring individualized therapeutic approaches. This integration allows for the precise identification of tumor characteristics, enabling clinicians to adapt treatment decisions based on the unique molecular and genetic profiles of individual tumors, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful outcomes.[229.1] Recent advancements in multimodal molecular imaging strategies have facilitated the development of more targeted and personalized therapies. For instance, the combination of imaging modalities has improved the ability to detect small tumors and assess their biological activity quantitatively, which is vital for the evolution of personalized medicine in oncology.[220.1] Furthermore, the use of immuno-PET, which combines radio-labeled antibodies with the high sensitivity of PET imaging, has emerged as a promising strategy for real-time monitoring of immune responses and treatment efficacy.[219.1] The incorporation of spatial multi-omics data into molecular imaging frameworks further enhances the understanding of tumor heterogeneity and its implications for personalized therapies. By decoding the cellular and molecular diversity within the tumor microenvironment, spatial multi-omics can identify precise therapeutic targets and predict treatment responses, thereby refining the approach to precision medicine.[207.1] This integration not only improves patient outcomes but also addresses the challenges of treatment resistance and variability in patient responses to therapies.[207.1]Challenges and Opportunities
Recent advancements in molecular imaging have highlighted both challenges and opportunities in the development and implementation of multiplexed nano- and microparticles. One significant challenge is the synthesis and scale-up of imaging agents, which has historically been underrepresented in the nanomedicine field compared to therapeutics. This underrepresentation is attributed to various factors, including difficulties in achieving biocompatibility and the complexity of the synthesis process.[227.1] Moreover, the design of molecular imaging probes must meet several critical demands, such as effective delivery to the target site, highly specific binding to disease markers, minimal non-specific accumulation, rapid elimination of unbound probes, and highly sensitive detection capabilities.[224.1] Recent preclinical advances have demonstrated the potential of multiplexing nano- and microparticles with multiple entities, including binding ligands for specific tissue targeting and molecules that facilitate detection across different imaging modalities.[226.1] Despite these advancements, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into molecular imaging presents both challenges and opportunities. AI-based tools have shown promise in enhancing detection sensitivity and improving data analysis, particularly in complex scenarios such as infection and inflammation.[193.1] However, the application of ML methods in analyzing multi-omics data remains limited by the inherent challenges of sparse data.[221.1] The potential breakthroughs in cancer research through the application of spatial multi-omics and molecular imaging technologies are significant. These technologies enable the joint analysis of various data modalities, such as transcriptome and proteome, which can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the tumor microenvironment.[222.1] As the field progresses, overcoming the existing challenges in the development of imaging agents and leveraging AI and ML will be crucial for enhancing the efficacy and accuracy of molecular imaging techniques.Research And Development
Current Trends in Molecular Probes
Recent advancements in molecular imaging have led to the development of innovative molecular probes that enhance the visualization and understanding of complex biological processes. Molecular imaging techniques utilize exogenously added probes to target and detect specific cellular or molecular processes in living organisms, allowing for a more detailed analysis of biological functions at the cellular and subcellular levels.[262.1] One notable trend is the use of targeted contrast agents, such as the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2)-targeted ultrasound contrast agent BR55, which has shown promise in enhancing the contrast of prostate lesions.[267.1] These targeted agents are designed to improve specificity and sensitivity in imaging, thereby facilitating the detection of disease biomarkers.[237.1] Additionally, the integration of advanced imaging modalities, such as positron emission tomography (PET) combined with leukocyte-targeted probes, has emerged as a powerful tool in rheumatology, enabling non-invasive assessments of disease mechanisms.[264.1] Innovations like volumetric DNA microscopy, developed by researchers at the University of Chicago, allow for the creation of intricate 3D maps of genetic material, providing unprecedented insights into molecular interactions within organisms.[265.1] Furthermore, the combination of techniques such as MERFISH and expansion microscopy has enabled researchers to capture gene activity in individual bacteria, revealing new avenues for investigating bacterial interactions and antibiotic resistance.[266.1] These advancements underscore the ongoing evolution of molecular probes and imaging techniques, which are crucial for improving diagnostic accuracy and understanding disease mechanisms.[272.1]Multimodal Imaging Approaches
Recent advancements in multimodal imaging approaches have significantly enhanced the capabilities of molecular imaging in both research and clinical settings. The integration of various imaging modalities, such as positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and optical imaging, has enabled real-time assessment of immune responses and prediction of therapeutic outcomes in cancer immunotherapy. This is achieved by detecting the expression and functional states of specific targets, thereby improving the precision of treatment strategies.[242.1] Moreover, the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) and hybrid imaging modalities has further accelerated progress in the field. These innovations allow for a more comprehensive understanding of disease biology, which is crucial for the development of targeted therapies and the advancement of precision medicine. The combination of AI with molecular imaging techniques facilitates enhanced diagnosis, treatment planning, and personalized medicine.[243.1] Molecular imaging has also optimized the development and evaluation of drug delivery systems, particularly in anticancer drug discovery. By integrating imaging-functionalized RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutics with nanovehicles, researchers can study and improve the biodistribution and accumulation of these therapeutics at tumor sites.[244.1] This non-invasive assessment of biological and biochemical processes in living subjects is pivotal for enhancing our understanding of disease and drug activity during preclinical and clinical drug development.[245.1] The role of molecular imaging in personalized medicine is becoming increasingly prominent. Techniques such as immuno-PET, which utilizes radio-labeled antibodies, provide high sensitivity and quantitative potential for estimating antigenic expression levels and tracking immune cell populations. This capability is essential for identifying diseases, assessing responses to therapy, and managing cancer patients more effectively.[249.1] Furthermore, molecular imaging probes, which consist of targeting and signaling components, are critical for the non-invasive examination of cells within living subjects, thereby contributing to the advancement of personalized treatment plans.[250.1]In this section:
Regulatory And Ethical Considerations
Safety and Efficacy
The safety and efficacy of molecular imaging are paramount considerations in its regulatory framework. As molecular imaging techniques often utilize specific imaging probes that are treated similarly to drugs, they necessitate rigorous regulatory approval processes. This includes thorough assessments in clinical trials to demonstrate their safety and efficacy before they can be widely adopted in clinical practice.[296.1] The journey to regulatory approval for molecular imaging agents begins with preclinical validation, where the safety and efficacy of these agents must be established in animal models. This initial stage is critical, as it lays the groundwork for all subsequent regulatory evaluations.[294.1] However, the timeline for obtaining regulatory approval can be lengthy and fraught with challenges, particularly due to the high costs associated with the approval process.[278.1] Moreover, the regulatory environment must evolve to accommodate the shift from traditional anatomic imaging to biomarker-based molecular imaging, which is increasingly recognized as a primary means for assessing treatment responses in oncology.[300.1] Understanding the regulatory landscape is essential for the radiology community to effectively collaborate with regulatory bodies, such as the FDA, to navigate these barriers and ensure that the full potential of molecular imaging is realized.[283.1] As molecular imaging technologies advance, the balance between innovation and regulatory oversight becomes increasingly complex. Regulators face the challenge of enabling innovation while ensuring that new imaging techniques are safe and effective for patients.[297.1] This balance is crucial to prevent excessive regulation from stifling innovation, while also guaranteeing that products meet safety and efficacy standards.[298.1]Patient Privacy and Data Management
The ethical management of patient privacy and data is a critical concern in the development and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in molecular imaging. The AI Task Force of the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has identified several ethical risks associated with the use of AI in this field, particularly focusing on the privacy of data subjects and the quality of the data used for training algorithms.[281.1] The collection of large volumes of patient data is essential for training, testing, and validating AI algorithms; however, this necessitates stringent measures to protect patient privacy.[287.1] To ensure ethical use of patient data, AI developers and users must be acutely aware of the risks involved and take proactive steps to safeguard patient information throughout the development and ongoing use of AI tools.[287.1] This includes obtaining informed consent from patients before their imaging studies are utilized for AI training, which must be adapted to account for the continuous use of data in algorithm development.[288.1] Furthermore, the ethical framework surrounding AI in molecular imaging must involve collaboration among patients, radiologists, researchers, and regulatory bodies to create guidelines that do not hinder innovation while ensuring patient rights are respected.[288.1] The FDA has also contributed to this discourse by releasing a discussion paper aimed at establishing a regulatory framework for AI-based medical devices, emphasizing the need for safe and effective deployment of these technologies.[288.1]In this section:
References
[2] General Principles of Molecular Imaging - ScienceDirect — Molecular imaging (MI) of living subjects is an exciting and continually advancing field with the overarching aim to study molecular and cellular events in the context of an intact living animal or human. ... Background signal is inherently low in this category of MI probe because the signal is only produced when MI probe interacts with its
[3] Molecular imaging - Wikipedia — The most common example of molecular imaging used clinically today is to inject a contrast agent (e.g., a microbubble, metal ion, or radioactive isotope) into a patient's bloodstream and to use an imaging modality (e.g., ultrasound, MRI, CT, PET) to track its movement in the body. Current research in molecular imaging involves cellular/molecular biology, chemistry, and medical physics, and is focused on: 1) developing imaging methods to detect previously undetectable types of molecules, 2) expanding the number and types of contrast agents available, and 3) developing functional contrast agents that provide information about the various activities that cells and tissues perform in both health and disease. To achieve molecular imaging of disease biomarkers using MRI, targeted MRI contrast agents with high specificity and high relaxivity (sensitivity) are required. To date, many studies have been devoted to developing targeted-MRI contrast agents to achieve molecular imaging by MRI.
[6] PDF — This tutorial will define what is currently considered molecular imaging. It will provide history and an overview, discuss the goals and the advantages of molecular imaging. It will clarify what is and is not molecular imaging, and give examples of different imaging case studies. It will also discuss MRI, Optical Imaging, SPECT and PET imaging, and
[7] Molecular Imaging in the Era of Personalized Medicine - PMC — Molecular Imaging in the Era of Personalized Medicine - PMC It can thus be defined as “noninvasive imaging and quantification of molecular and biochemical events that occur at the cellular and molecular level in tissues in their normal surroundings inside living bodies.” Noninvasive examination of cells inside living subjects by molecular imaging is critically dependent on biomarker probes that target key proteins linked to disease processes. Similarity of molecular imaging and pathology in utilizing probes to contribute to personalized medicine. MOLECULAR IMAGING PROBES Molecular imaging probes thus consist of a targeting component and a signaling component. (A) Molecular imaging probes containing targeting components that interact with molecules-of-interest and signaling components that allow detection from outside of the body. MOLECULAR IMAGING PROBES
[9] Molecular SPECT Imaging: An Overview - Wiley Online Library — Molecular imaging is an emerging field of study that deals with imaging of disease on a cellular or genetic level rather than on a gross level . With the emergence of the new field of molecular imaging, there is an increasing demand for developing sensitive and specific novel imaging agents that can rapidly be translated from small animal
[10] Personalized Medicine: Motivation, Challenges and Progress — These extreme genetic variation explains, in part, why individuals vary so much with respect to phenotypes, in particular their susceptibilities to disease and their responses to interventions.(13) It should be emphasized that although personalized medicine has its roots in the results of genetic studies, it is widely accepted that other factors, e.g., environmental exposures, developmental phenomena and epigenetic changes, and behaviors, all need to be taken into account when determining the optimal way to treat an individual patient (see Figure 1).(14-16) These activities include the use of patient-derived cell and organoid ‘avatars’ for determining the best therapies for that patient, the use of intense individualized diagnostic and monitoring protocols to detect signs of disease, the development of personalized digital therapeutics, and the use of personalized medicine approaches in treating patients with fertility issues.
[13] Design and Development of Molecular Imaging Probes - PMC — Moreover, multiple targeting moieties binding to various targets can be constructed and labeled with one or multiple signal agents for multiple targets imaging . In order to tune the pharmacokinetics of an imaging probe, a linker, such as polyethylene glycol chain, poly-amino acids, can be selected to connect the targeting moiety and the signal
[15] The Evolution of Imaging in Cancer: Current State and Future Challenges — Molecular imaging, distinct from advanced functional imaging techniques, is the visualization, characterization, and measurement of biological processes at the molecular and cellular levels in living systems. 12 Molecular imaging spans all organ systems and diseases, with the first example in the realm of oncology for imaging thyroid cancer. 13
[16] Molecular Imaging Biomarkers for Early Cancer Detection: A ... - PubMed — Background: Early cancer detection is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Molecular imaging biomarkers offer the potential for non-invasive, early-stage cancer diagnosis. Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of molecular imaging biomarkers for early cancer detection across various imaging modalities and cancer types.
[20] Advances in PET imaging of cancer - PubMed — Advances in PET imaging of cancer - PubMed Advances in PET imaging of cancer 2 Nuclear Medicine and Clinical Molecular Imaging, Department of Radiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany. 3 Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumour Therapies', Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany. 8 Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumour Therapies', Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany. Advances in PET imaging of cancer 2 Nuclear Medicine and Clinical Molecular Imaging, Department of Radiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany. Positron emission tomography (PET) and its combination with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a multimodality PET-CT or PET-MRI system offer a wealth of molecular, functional and morphological data with a single patient scan.
[21] Molecular imaging in the framework of personalized cancer medicine — Radiation oncology has benefited from molecular imaging via PET-CT and MRSI. Advanced mathematical approaches can improve dose planning in stereotactic radiosurgery, stereotactic body radiotherapy and high dose-rate brachytherapy. Molecular imaging will likely impact profoundly on clinical decision making in oncology. Molecular imaging via MR
[22] The Role of Molecular Imaging in Personalized Medicine — This paper will review a wide range of published research on personalized medicine and molecular imaging to define the role of molecular imaging (ultrasound, MRI, PET-CT, PET-MRI, SPECT) in personalized medicine. Nowadays, immuno-PET is a safe multimodality treatment strategy that helps to move toward precision medicine using radio-labelled antibodies and targets that combine with the high sensitivity and quantitative potential of PET non-invasively to provide quantitative, high quality, high spatial, and temporal resolution images that help to estimate the antigenic expression level of immuno-PET such as immune checkpoints and effector molecules, or the detection and tracking of immune cell populations such as T-cell subsets and chimeric antigen receptor T-cells, in identifying diseases and stages, responses to therapy, and whole-body bio-distribution in real-time, which leads to improvement in cancer patient management.
[45] Multimodal molecular imaging in drug discovery and development — For multimodal imaging techniques with optical imaging, molecular probes can be developed that comprise a fluorescent part for optical imaging combined with other contrast agents that are used, for example, in CT, MRI, PET, or SPECT, in a single structure. 30 The development of a single probe, visible by all these techniques, would make
[48] History of PET and MRI - Energy.gov — Molecular Nuclear Medicine Legacy. History of PET and MRI. Modern medical imaging began with discoveries during the nuclear medicine program of the 1940s to 1990s and was funded by DOE's Office of Biological and Environment Research (BER). Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is one of the advancements developed in this program. By
[49] Molecular imaging - Wikipedia — The most common example of molecular imaging used clinically today is to inject a contrast agent (e.g., a microbubble, metal ion, or radioactive isotope) into a patient's bloodstream and to use an imaging modality (e.g., ultrasound, MRI, CT, PET) to track its movement in the body. Current research in molecular imaging involves cellular/molecular biology, chemistry, and medical physics, and is focused on: 1) developing imaging methods to detect previously undetectable types of molecules, 2) expanding the number and types of contrast agents available, and 3) developing functional contrast agents that provide information about the various activities that cells and tissues perform in both health and disease. To achieve molecular imaging of disease biomarkers using MRI, targeted MRI contrast agents with high specificity and high relaxivity (sensitivity) are required. To date, many studies have been devoted to developing targeted-MRI contrast agents to achieve molecular imaging by MRI.
[53] AI as a New Frontier in Contrast Media Research: Bridging the Gap ... — Artificial intelligence (AI) techniques are currently harnessed to revolutionize the domain of medical imaging. This review investigates 3 major AI-driven approaches for contrast agent management: new frontiers in contrast agent dose reduction, the contrast-free question, and new applications. By ex …
[55] History of Advanced Medical and Molecular Imaging Systems - Cytiva — History of Advanced Medical and Molecular Imaging Systems | Cytiva The History of Advanced Medical and Molecular Imaging Systems: Laser and CCD Camera Medical imaging and advanced molecular imaging systems were born from some of the most outstanding advances in genomics, proteomics, protein research, and drug discovery during the 20th century, which is when imaging became best known as a wealth of information for what was revealed during the imaging process. Historically, colorimetric stains such as Coomassie Blue and silver stain held positions as the ‘gold-standard’ techniques in protein medical imaging. The use of fluorescent stains and labels, in combination with advanced imaging devices, allows for a much broader dynamic range and more sensitive detection when compared to traditional colorimetric staining methods.
[57] Bioimaging: Evolution, Significance, and Deficit - PMC — Examples of bioimaging in the medical industry include X-ray and ultrasound pictures, MRI, 3D and 4D body images utilizing Computed Tomography (CT) scans, DEXA scans which is useful for assessing bone density in osteoporosis, and so on. The area of biomedical imaging has advanced over the past 100 years, starting with Roentgen's initial discovery of the X-ray and ending with a new imaging approach with MRI, CT, and PET. As it generates high-resolution pictures and greater soft tissue dissimilarity, MRI is preferably utilized for detection instead of CT, ultrasound, and X-ray. Photon-counting CT can reduce radiation exposure, reconstruct images at a higher resolution, correct beam-hardening artefacts, maximize the use of contrast agents, and create opportunities for quantitative imaging relative to current CT technology .
[87] Molecular Imaging - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics — Molecular imaging can be defined as “the visual representation, characterization and quantification of biological processes at the cellular and subcellular level.”1 Imaging techniques available for this purpose include nuclear medicine techniques (in particular positron emission tomography [PET]), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with dedicated imaging sequences and molecular contrast agents, and optical imaging (including bioluminescence and immunofluorescence imaging). In a prospective study of 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT that included 50 patients with a solitary renal mass imaged prior to surgery, Gorin et al reported sensitivity of 87.5% and specificity of 95.2% for the diagnosis of renal oncocytomas and hybrid oncocytic/chromophobe tumors (HOCTs).
[89] Molecular Imaging: Current Status and Emerging Strategies — Contrast agents used for molecular imaging are composed of at least 2 entities: one component such as an antibody, peptide, nucleic acid, or a small molecule for binding to the molecular target, and a label for readout by an imaging modality (see also Table 1).More sophisticated contrast agents can include multiple parts for targeting several molecules at once, as well as, several labels for
[91] Molecular Imaging Biomarkers for Early Cancer Detection: A ... - PubMed — Molecular Imaging Biomarkers for Early Cancer Detection: A Systematic Review of Emerging Technologies and Clinical Applications - PubMed Molecular Imaging Biomarkers for Early Cancer Detection: A Systematic Review of Emerging Technologies and Clinical Applications Molecular Imaging Biomarkers for Early Cancer Detection: A Systematic Review of Emerging Technologies and Clinical Applications Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of molecular imaging biomarkers for early cancer detection across various imaging modalities and cancer types. Eligibility criteria included original research articles published in English on molecular imaging biomarkers for early cancer detection in humans. Accuracy of molecular imaging biomarkers compared to conventional imaging in early-stage cancer detection. Accuracy of molecular imaging biomarkers compared to conventional imaging in early-stage cancer detection.
[99] Multiplex Imaging Breakthroughs in Biology and Health — Multiplex imaging allows researchers to visualize multiple molecular targets simultaneously, providing a comprehensive understanding of cellular interactions and disease mechanisms. Recent breakthroughs have improved the resolution, sensitivity, and scalability of multiplex imaging, enabling deeper insights into tissue architecture and single-cell behavior. Multiplex imaging detects multiple molecular targets within a single sample while preserving spatial context. Mass-based multiplex imaging techniques revolutionize spatial proteomics and molecular histology by detecting dozens of biomarkers without spectral overlap. Highly specific labeling techniques and advanced imaging modalities enable researchers to identify rare cell types and transient signaling events that might otherwise go undetected. As imaging technology advances, multi-parameter readouts will continue to drive discoveries in cellular biology, offering a more holistic perspective on tissue organization and disease mechanisms.
[100] PET/MRI: Technical Challenges and Recent Advances - PMC — Additionally, MRI provides higher soft-tissue contrast in comparison with CT, making it easier to define the regions of interest in PET images that do not provide anatomic details such as neuro-receptors or ligands for PET/MRI. Conclusions. PET/MRI is a new hybrid imaging modality that can provide complementary functional and anatomical
[101] Recent Breakthroughs in PET-CT Multimodality Imaging ... - PubMed — Recent Breakthroughs in PET-CT Multimodality Imaging: Innovations and Clinical Impact - PubMed Recent Breakthroughs in PET-CT Multimodality Imaging: Innovations and Clinical Impact Recent Breakthroughs in PET-CT Multimodality Imaging: Innovations and Clinical Impact This review presents a detailed examination of the most recent advancements in positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) multimodal imaging over the past five years. Keywords: PET-CT; artificial intelligence; clinical practice; cutting-edge technology innovations; diagnostic imaging; multimodality imaging; patient care; radiotracer development; theranostics. Selected articles with top achievements over the past 5 years focused on PET-CT and multi-model medical imaging modality . Most focused innovation area distribution of PET-CT. Most focused innovation area distribution of PET-CT. Detection of cancer-associated cachexia in lung cancer patients using whole-body [18F]FDG-PET/CT imaging: A multi-centre study.
[105] Advances in Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contrast Agents for Biomarker ... — MRI contrast agents based on the T 2 exchange mechanism have more recently expanded the armamentarium of agents for molecular imaging. Compared with T 1 and T 2 * agents, T 2 exchange agents have a slower chemical exchange rate, which improves the ability to design these MRI contrast agents with greater specificity for detecting the intended
[106] Advances in molecular imaging: targeted optical contrast agents for ... — The targeting moiety is an important determinant of the specificity and sensitivity of the contrast agent. The targeted biomarker must be adequately abundant for detection and sufficiently specific to the particular disease or stage of the disease under examination to yield adequate image contrast. ... Recent advances in contrast agent design
[107] Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonding Based CEST MRI Contrast Agents As an ... — The emergence of intramolecular hydrogen bonding-based CEST MRI contrast agents represents a cutting-edge design strategy that holds great promise in the field of molecular imaging and pH mapping. The innovative approach offers enhanced sensitivity and specificity in assessing tissue acidity levels, addressing key limitations associated with
[108] Nanostructures and nanoparticles as medical diagnostic imaging contrast ... — Nanostructures and nanoparticles as medical diagnostic imaging contrast agents: A review - ScienceDirect Nanostructures and nanoparticles as medical diagnostic imaging contrast agents: A review While nanotechnology offers all the advantages for improved performance of contrast agents the actual design of effective nanoparticle contrast agents for molecular imaging requires careful consideration of the properties required for the application under consideration [, , , , ]. Some of the most recent designs of nanoparticle-based molecular imaging contrast agents incorporate the appropriate contrast-generating materials (i.e. fluorescent, radioactive, paramagnetic, superparamagnetic, or electron dense), targeting groups, a biocompatible coating and the possibility for other functionalities such as a therapeutic [, , , ].
[109] Protein MRI Contrast Agents as an Effective Approach for ... - PubMed — Further engineering of multiple targeting moieties enables ProCA32 agents that have strong biomarker-binding affinity and specificity for an array of key molecular biomarkers associated with various chronic diseases, while maintaining relaxation and exceptional metal-binding and selectivity, serum stability, and resistance to transmetallation
[110] Microbubbles as Ultrasound Contrast Agents for Molecular Imaging ... - AJR — Molecular imaging promises to expand the range of functional imaging, enable early disease detection and therapy monitoring, and provide spatial information for imaging-guided biopsy and imaging-guided therapy. Achieving the overarching goal of personalized medicine will depend on the success of molecular imaging techniques.
[111] Molecular imaging agents: impact on diagnosis and therapeutics in ... — Keywords: Molecular Imaging, Tumor, Cancer, Targeted Molecular Imaging, Therapeutic Response, PET, MRI, SPECT Coupled with the improved knowledge of cancer biology and genetics, and the growing number of targeted drugs entering clinical trials, it is clear that molecular imaging will continue to provide increasingly sensitive approaches for early cancer detection and staging, for prediction of therapeutic response and for monitoring therapeutic efficacy. Molecular imaging is a natural counterpart of targeted therapies in that it has the potential to help clinicians match specific therapies to patient populations most likely to respond, to more accurately track individual response, and to allow monitoring of therapeutic resistance (Ref. 68). Using molecular imaging agents targeted to these molecules, tumor angiogenesis and vascular response to antitumor therapies can be assessed noninvasively (Ref. 85).
[133] Building the Bridge: Molecular Imaging Biomarkers for 21st Century ... — For example, immunohistochemistry for estrogen receptor (ER) expression plays an important role as a biomarker forecasting tumor aggressivity and response to estrogen pathway therapies in breast cancer (5), and molecular characterization of hematologic malignancies such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma guides the use of modern therapies such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells and bispecific antibodies targeting cell surface markers, such as CD19 and CD20 (6). Here we briefly review the molecular imaging paradigm that has evolved in recent years and consider new ways of applying molecular imaging to predict and assess response to 21st century cancer therapeutics, including the unique ability of molecular imaging to capture targeted therapy delivery to tumor sites.
[135] Molecular Imaging and Targeted Therapies - PMC - National Center for ... — Molecular Imaging measures specifically targeted expression or activity of gene products. These are intimately coupled to predicting effects of targeted therapies so will be the subject of the rest of this review. PET is commonly referred to as a molecular imaging modality, because its sensitivity is orders of magnitude higher than that of CT
[136] Molecular and functional imaging in cancer-targeted therapy ... - PubMed — Moreover, the application of molecular imaging for evaluating treatment response and related clinical outcome is also systematically outlined. In the future, more attention should be paid to promoting the clinical translation of molecular imaging in evaluating the sensitivity to targeted therapy with biocompatible probes.
[137] Molecular Imaging: Current Status and Emerging Strategies — Abstract. In vivo molecular imaging has a great potential to impact medicine by detecting diseases in early stages (screening), identifying extent of disease, selecting disease- and patient-specific therapeutic treatment (personalized medicine), applying a directed or targeted therapy, and measuring molecular-specific effects of treatment. Current clinical molecular imaging approaches
[152] Medical imaging in personalised medicine: a white paper of the research ... — Stratification based on imaging biomarkers can help identify individuals suited for preventive intervention and can improve disease staging. In vivo visualisation of locoregional physiological, biochemical and biological processes using molecular imaging can detect diseases in pre-symptomatic phases or facilitate individualised drug delivery.
[164] Molecular Imaging - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics — Molecular imaging can be defined as “the visual representation, characterization and quantification of biological processes at the cellular and subcellular level.”1 Imaging techniques available for this purpose include nuclear medicine techniques (in particular positron emission tomography [PET]), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with dedicated imaging sequences and molecular contrast agents, and optical imaging (including bioluminescence and immunofluorescence imaging). In a prospective study of 99mTc-sestamibi SPECT/CT that included 50 patients with a solitary renal mass imaged prior to surgery, Gorin et al reported sensitivity of 87.5% and specificity of 95.2% for the diagnosis of renal oncocytomas and hybrid oncocytic/chromophobe tumors (HOCTs).
[165] Molecular imaging: an overview and clinical applications — Molecular imaging: an overview and clinical applications - PubMed Clinical applications of molecular imaging include the use of nuclear medicine, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US). The basic principle of the diagnostic imaging application is derived from the ability of cell and molecular biologists to identify specific receptor sites associated with target molecules that characterize the disease process to be studied. For example, the clinical owner should have fundamental knowledge in basic cellular and molecular biology but must also be certified as well as competent in the specific diagnostic imaging specialty applied (i.e. nuclear, MR or ultrasound). The future of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging. eCollection 2019 Jan-Dec. Ther Adv Gastrointest Endosc. Use of Molecular Imaging in Clinical Drug Development: a Systematic Review.
[168] From PET to MRI Innovations in Cancer Imaging Techniques — Machine learning algorithms applied to radiomic data can improve predictive modeling in oncology . The future of cancer imaging lies in its integration with personalized medicine. Advanced imaging techniques, combined with genomic and molecular profiling, will enable tailored treatment strategies.
[170] Advances in PET imaging of cancer - PubMed — Advances in PET imaging of cancer - PubMed Advances in PET imaging of cancer 2 Nuclear Medicine and Clinical Molecular Imaging, Department of Radiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany. 3 Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumour Therapies', Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany. 8 Cluster of Excellence iFIT (EXC 2180) 'Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumour Therapies', Eberhard Karls University, Tübingen, Germany. Advances in PET imaging of cancer 2 Nuclear Medicine and Clinical Molecular Imaging, Department of Radiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany. Positron emission tomography (PET) and its combination with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a multimodality PET-CT or PET-MRI system offer a wealth of molecular, functional and morphological data with a single patient scan.
[171] Advanced Tumor Imaging Approaches in Human Tumors - PMC — In this review, we highlight three different areas where tumor imaging approaches have had significant advancement in recent years and how continuing to improve these areas may impact the detection and treatment of cancers in the future. The areas of technological development and tumor imaging methods that have made great strides in cancer treatment are artificial intelligence, molecular imaging, and real-time intravital imaging. Developing innovative methods to improve the detection, monitoring, and treatment of cancer has been at the forefront of medical research, and, as discussed in this review, much has been learned about the nature of human tumors in recent years due to the advancements in artificial intelligence, molecular imaging, and intravital imaging.
[174] Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging—An Impactful Decade of ... - AJR — The field of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging has advanced rapidly in recent years. Some of these advancements include approval of multiple new PET and SPECT radiopharmaceuticals by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for clinical use; advancements in radiochemistry and radiopharmacy, leading to novel kit- or cassette-type labeling techniques; novel digital detector deployment in
[175] The chemical tool-kit for molecular imaging with radionuclides in the ... — Nuclear medicine has evolved over the last half-century from a functional imaging modality using a handful of radiopharmaceuticals, many of unknown structure and mechanism of action, into a modern speciality that can properly be described as molecular imaging, with a very large number of specific radioactive probes of known structure that image specific molecular processes.
[185] Towards molecular imaging-guided intervention theatres in oncology ... — A proof of principle study showed photoacoustic imaging-guided biopsy allows for simultaneous imaging of functional and molecular contrast, mapping intraprostatic vasculature as well as enhancing contrast of the lesion through visualization of indocyanine green (Fig. 1) . Other techniques to improve the yield of image-guided biopsy include
[193] A role for artificial intelligence in molecular imaging of infection ... — Artificial intelligence (AI) offers innovative approaches to mine the wealth of imaging data and has led to disruptive breakthroughs in other medical domains already. Here, we discuss how AI-based tools can improve the detection sensitivity of molecular imaging in infection and inflammation but also how AI might push the data analysis beyond
[207] The spatial multi-omics revolution in cancer therapy: Precision ... — Spatially resolved multi-omics revolutionizes cancer therapy by decoding the cellular and molecular heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment through spatial coordinates. This commentary discusses the roles of spatial multi-omics in identifying precise therapeutic targets and predicting treatment responses while also highlighting the challenges that impede its integration into precision
[219] The Role of Molecular Imaging in Personalized Medicine — This paper will review a wide range of published research on personalized medicine and molecular imaging to define the role of molecular imaging (ultrasound, MRI, PET-CT, PET-MRI, SPECT) in personalized medicine. Nowadays, immuno-PET is a safe multimodality treatment strategy that helps to move toward precision medicine using radio-labelled antibodies and targets that combine with the high sensitivity and quantitative potential of PET non-invasively to provide quantitative, high quality, high spatial, and temporal resolution images that help to estimate the antigenic expression level of immuno-PET such as immune checkpoints and effector molecules, or the detection and tracking of immune cell populations such as T-cell subsets and chimeric antigen receptor T-cells, in identifying diseases and stages, responses to therapy, and whole-body bio-distribution in real-time, which leads to improvement in cancer patient management.
[220] The Role of Molecular Imaging in Personalized Medicine - MDPI — Next Article in Journal Journals Journals Find a Journal Journal Journals Moreover, it is able to detect very tiny tumors and assess their activity numerically, which makes molecular imaging one of the most scientific reasons that contributes greatly to expanding and developing the personalized medicine, research, clinical trials, and medical practice of cancer fields, evolving a new generation of platforms with greater accuracy and sensitivity for in vivo quantification and characterization of various biological processes . This paper will review a wide range of published research on personalized medicine and molecular imaging to define the role of molecular imaging (ultrasound, MRI, PET-CT, PET-MRI, SPECT) in personalized medicine. "The Role of Molecular Imaging in Personalized Medicine" Journal of Personalized Medicine 13, no. International Journal of Molecular Sciences
[221] Multimodal functional deep learning for multiomics data — However, these approaches have inherent limitations on sparse data. More recently, the state-of-the-art machine learning (ML) methods have been increasingly used in multiomics data, including a novel MultiOmics Meta-learning Algorithm (MUMA) and other methods reviewed by Chung et al. .
[222] Spatial multi-omics: novel tools to study the complexity of ... — Spatial multi-omic studies have emerged as a promising approach to comprehensively analyze cells in tissues, enabling the joint analysis of multiple data modalities like transcriptome, epigenome, proteome, and metabolome in parallel or even the same tissue section. This review focuses on the recent advancements in spatial multi-omics technologies, including novel data modalities and
[224] Nanoimaging I - SpringerLink — In nano- and microparticles for molecular imaging from a pharmacologic and imaging point of view, molecular imaging probes should fulfil several demands: good delivery to the target, highly specific binding (and internalization), low non-specific accumulation, rapid elimination of the unbound probe, and highly sensitive detection (optimally
[226] Molecular Imaging: Current Status and Emerging Strategies — Recent preclinical advances in molecular imaging contrast agents have demonstrated the ability to multiplex nano- and/or microparticles with several entities (Figure 1): 1) a molecule for targeting to a specific tissue/disease marker (binding ligand); 2) a molecule that allows detection of the agent with different imaging modalities; and, 3) a
[227] Challenges in the development of nanoparticle-based imaging agents ... — Despite imaging agents being some of the earliest nanomedicines in clinical use, the vast majority of current research and translational activities in the nanomedicine field involves therapeutics, while imaging agents are severely underrepresented. The reasons for this lack of representation are several fold, including difficulties in synthesis and scale-up, biocompatibility issues, lack of
[229] Imaging approaches to optimize molecular therapies — Precision oncology aims to adapt treatment decisions to an individual tumor's molecular and genetic characteristics, thereby increasing the chance of a successful outcome (1, 2).Imaging biomarkers have the potential to contribute to both preclinical and clinical cancer drug development, for instance, by knowing target behavior and location [reviewed in (2-5)].
[237] Molecular imaging - Wikipedia — The most common example of molecular imaging used clinically today is to inject a contrast agent (e.g., a microbubble, metal ion, or radioactive isotope) into a patient's bloodstream and to use an imaging modality (e.g., ultrasound, MRI, CT, PET) to track its movement in the body. Current research in molecular imaging involves cellular/molecular biology, chemistry, and medical physics, and is focused on: 1) developing imaging methods to detect previously undetectable types of molecules, 2) expanding the number and types of contrast agents available, and 3) developing functional contrast agents that provide information about the various activities that cells and tissues perform in both health and disease. To achieve molecular imaging of disease biomarkers using MRI, targeted MRI contrast agents with high specificity and high relaxivity (sensitivity) are required. To date, many studies have been devoted to developing targeted-MRI contrast agents to achieve molecular imaging by MRI.
[242] Recent Advances in the Development of Non‐Invasive Imaging Probes for ... — This review highlights recent advances in the chemical design of molecular probes with various imaging modalities such as PET, MRI, and optical imaging for early, real-time assessment of immune responses and prediction of therapeutic outcome in cancer immunotherapy by detecting expression and functional states of specific targets.
[243] PDF — This paper explores the latest innovations in medical imaging technology, focusing on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), hybrid imaging modalities, three-dimensional (3D) printing, radiomics, low-dose imaging techniques, and the emerging field of molecular imaging. The integration of innovative technologies, such as AI, hybrid imaging modalities, 3D printing, radiomics, low-dose imaging techniques, and molecular imaging, has further accelerated the progress in this field. Hybrid imaging modalities and molecular imaging techniques can provide a more comprehensive understanding of disease biology, facilitating the development of targeted therapies and enabling precision medicine. The integration of AI, hybrid imaging modalities, 3D printing, radiomics, low-dose imaging techniques, and molecular imaging has opened up new possibilities for diagnosis, treatment planning, and personalized medicine.
[244] The role of molecular imaging in modern drug development — The role of molecular imaging in modern drug development - ScienceDirect The role of molecular imaging in modern drug development Molecular imaging improves drug development efficiency and shortens timings. Molecular imaging in drug discovery and development Molecular imaging in drug development The use of molecular imaging technologies has optimised the development and evaluation of drug delivery systems (Fernandez-Ferreiro et al., 2017; Ding and Wu, 2012). Molecular imaging has emerged as an indispensable technology in the development and application of drug delivery systems. Typically, imaging-functionalized RNAi therapeutics delivery that combines nanovehicles and imaging techniques to study and improve their biodistribution and accumulation in tumor site has been progressively integrated into anticancer drug discovery and development processes.
[245] Molecular imaging in drug development - PubMed — Molecular imaging can allow the non-invasive assessment of biological and biochemical processes in living subjects. Such technologies therefore have the potential to enhance our understanding of disease and drug activity during preclinical and clinical drug development, which could aid decisions to select candidates that seem most likely to be successful or to halt the development of drugs
[249] The Role of Molecular Imaging in Personalized Medicine — This paper will review a wide range of published research on personalized medicine and molecular imaging to define the role of molecular imaging (ultrasound, MRI, PET-CT, PET-MRI, SPECT) in personalized medicine. Nowadays, immuno-PET is a safe multimodality treatment strategy that helps to move toward precision medicine using radio-labelled antibodies and targets that combine with the high sensitivity and quantitative potential of PET non-invasively to provide quantitative, high quality, high spatial, and temporal resolution images that help to estimate the antigenic expression level of immuno-PET such as immune checkpoints and effector molecules, or the detection and tracking of immune cell populations such as T-cell subsets and chimeric antigen receptor T-cells, in identifying diseases and stages, responses to therapy, and whole-body bio-distribution in real-time, which leads to improvement in cancer patient management.
[250] Molecular Imaging in the Era of Personalized Medicine - PMC — Molecular Imaging in the Era of Personalized Medicine - PMC It can thus be defined as “noninvasive imaging and quantification of molecular and biochemical events that occur at the cellular and molecular level in tissues in their normal surroundings inside living bodies.” Noninvasive examination of cells inside living subjects by molecular imaging is critically dependent on biomarker probes that target key proteins linked to disease processes. Similarity of molecular imaging and pathology in utilizing probes to contribute to personalized medicine. MOLECULAR IMAGING PROBES Molecular imaging probes thus consist of a targeting component and a signaling component. (A) Molecular imaging probes containing targeting components that interact with molecules-of-interest and signaling components that allow detection from outside of the body. MOLECULAR IMAGING PROBES
[262] Molecular imaging - Latest research and news - Nature — Molecular imaging encompasses a variety of imaging techniques that rely on the use of exogenously added probes to target and detect desired cellular or molecular processes in a living organism
[264] Imaging inflammation with leukocyte-targeted PET tracers — Molecular imaging techniques such as PET with the leukocyte-targeted probe 89Zr-CD45 are promising tools for rheumatology, providing a non-invasive whole-body assessment of the mechanisms that
[265] DNA Microscopy Creates 3D Maps of Life From the Inside Out - SciTechDaily — Scientists at the University of Chicago have pioneered a revolutionary imaging technique called volumetric DNA microscopy. It builds intricate 3D maps of genetic material by tagging and tracking molecular interactions, creating never-before-seen views inside organisms like zebrafish embryos. New Window into Genetics
[266] New Imaging Technique Illuminates Bacterial Gene Activity — New Imaging Technique Illuminates Bacterial Gene Activity Researchers have created a novel imaging-technology combination that can capture gene activity in individual bacteria in their complex local environments, opening new avenues to investigate bacterial interaction, virulence, and antibiotic resistance. Senior author Jeffrey Moffitt, Harvard Medical School assistant professor of microbiology and of pediatrics at Boston Children’s Hospital, and colleagues combined two techniques — MERFISH and expansion microscopy — to profile messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in thousands of bacteria simultaneously. “All the bacterial RNAs become individually resolvable,” Moffitt said. Bacterial-MERFISH can also provide insights on bacteria that are difficult to grow in a culture dish. The team also gained insight into how bacteria organize their RNAs, which may be important for regulating different aspects of gene expression.
[267] Nanoscale contrast agents: A promising tool for ultrasound imaging and ... — A prior study highlighted the pioneering in-human ultrasound molecular imaging using BR55, a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2)-targeted ultrasound contrast agent, which can enhance the contrast of prostate lesions . However, their relatively large size (typically 1-5 µm) poses challenges in detecting extravascular
[272] Challenges in Molecular Imaging and Drug Development - Collegenp — Despite the challenges faced in molecular imaging and drug discovery, there have been significant advancements made in these fields in recent years. In molecular imaging, advancements in imaging technology, including the development of new imaging agents and techniques, have led to improved accuracy and sensitivity in imaging results.
[278] Regulatory and Reimbursement Challenges for Molecular Imaging — The timeline for the regulatory approval will be long and potentially problematic because of the mounting costs of obtaining final regulatory approval. The current article is a detailed review of the regulatory and reimbursement process that will be required for molecular imaging probes and techniques to become a widespread clinical reality.
[281] Ethical Considerations for Artificial Intelligence in Medical Imaging ... — The development of artificial intelligence (AI) within nuclear imaging involves several ethically fraught components at different stages of the machine learning pipeline, including during data collection, model training and validation, and clinical use. Drawing on the traditional principles of medical and research ethics, and highlighting the need to ensure health justice, the AI task force of the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging has identified 4 major ethical risks: privacy of data subjects, data quality and model efficacy, fairness toward marginalized populations, and transparency of clinical performance. Once data have been collected, researchers and developers must responsibly use those data to train and evaluate AIMDs. In previous work, we identified best practices for the development of AIMDs to ensure that they are task-specific, are interpretable to users, and are generalizable to different populations (26).
[283] The Regulatory Process for Imaging Agents and Devices — Molecular imaging techniques are used to individualize and personalize treatments based on a "molecular phenotype" of the disease at the time of diagnosis and throughout the course of therapy. Being knowledgeable regarding regulatory requirements will assist in obtaining appropriate molecular imaging approvals and detail the required
[287] Artificial Intelligence in Radiology—Ethical Considerations — AI-based algorithms for use in radiology require access to large volumes of patient data for the purposes of training, testing, and validating the algorithms. Ethical use of patient data demands that AI developers and users be aware of these risks, and take all steps possible to protect patient privacy during development and ongoing use of AI tools. | Difficult access to large amount of data for AI training | Ownership of data, how data are used, and how the privacy of those from whom the data is derived is protected | Patients must give their consent if their imaging studies are to be used to train an AI algorithm. [(accessed on 16 April 2020)]; Available online: https://www.acr.org/-/media/ACR/Files/Informatics/Ethics-of-AI-in-Radiology-European-and-North-American-Multisociety-Statement--6-13-2019.pdf.
[288] Ethical considerations for artificial intelligence: an overview of the ... — Therefore, patients, radiologists, researchers, other stakeholders, and governments must work together to enact an ethical framework for AI that at the same time does not thwart new developments. The FDA released a discussion paper, entitled Regulatory Framework for Modifications to Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning-Based Software as a Medical Device, to support the development of safe and effective medical devices that use AI algorithms (14). When developing and implementing AI in radiology, medical images may be repeatedly used for training and validation of algorithms; therefore, informed consents need to be adapted in a way that also accounts for continuous usage.
[294] Molecular imaging: Navigating Regulatory Challenges: Bringing Molecular ... — In the realm of molecular imaging, the path to market is a labyrinth of regulatory hurdles, each more daunting than the last. The journey begins with the 1.Preclinical Validation, where the safety and efficacy of imaging agents must be demonstrated in animal models.This stage is critical, as it sets the foundation for all subsequent regulatory evaluations.
[296] Regulatory and Reimbursement Challenges for Molecular Imaging — Molecular imaging is being hailed as the next great advance for imaging. Since molecular imaging typically involves the use of specific imaging probes that are treated like drugs, they will require regulatory approval. As with any drug, molecular imaging probes and techniques will also require thorough assessment in clinical trials to show
[297] Perspectives on translational molecular imaging and therapy: an ... — This means academic researchers need to establish innovative approaches that strike a reasonable balance between innovation, ethics, legislation, and financial burden. ... see tremendous value and potential for innovation in molecular imaging, theranostics and image-guided therapy. ... Union E. Regulation (EU) 2017/745 of the European
[298] AI in imaging: the regulatory landscape - PMC — The regulators need to strike a balance between enabling innovation in this important area and ensuring that AI tools put on the market have a positive benefit: risk ratio for patients. ... in a thorough technical review, 7 emphasize that the most recent innovation in AI in medical imaging has been in that machine learning subset of AI. In
[300] Regulatory Considerations Involved in Imaging - Semantic Scholar — The regulatory environment for this shift from anatomic towards biomarker (molecular imaging) as the primary means for assessing treatment response in oncology must be considered and developed to maximize the potential which imaging brings to medical diagnosis and to clinical decision making. Today's revolution in imaging technologies in the biomedical sciences has raised much needed hope