Nuclear imaging methods for non-invasive drug monitoring

Citation
A. Bhatnagar et al., Nuclear imaging methods for non-invasive drug monitoring, ADV DRUG DE, 41(1), 2000, pp. 41-54
Citations number
56
Categorie Soggetti
Pharmacology & Toxicology
Journal title
ADVANCED DRUG DELIVERY REVIEWS
ISSN journal
0169409X → ACNP
Volume
41
Issue
1
Year of publication
2000
Pages
41 - 54
Database
ISI
SICI code
0169-409X(20000315)41:1<41:NIMFND>2.0.ZU;2-A
Abstract
Functional imaging techniques provide complimentary information to that pro vided by structural studies such as MRI and CT. Functional imaging is based upon known parameters such as physiology, metabolism, biochemistry, pharma cology, and any other biological process. As such, this methodology-plays a major role in understanding the basic mechanisms of a multitude of disorde rs, accurate diagnosis of certain diseases, and developing effective treatm ent for serious illnesses such as cancer and central nervous system maladie s. Although this type of imaging can be performed with various modalities, nuclear procedures have played the leading role in this discipline. Advance s made in labeling various radionuclides to biologically important compound s, and development of sophisticated instruments have substantially contribu ted to the growth of the field of functional imaging. The introduction of p ositron emission topography (PET), which is based on growth imaging of comp ounds labeled with elements such as carbon, nitrogen, and fluorine, has add ed a major dimension to the evolution of the discipline. This review deals with a brief introduction to the methodologies utilized with radiolabeled t racers and then deals with specific applications of this technology. These applications include assessment of blood flow and metabolism, receptor imag ing, elucidating the pathophysiologic process, evaluating role of labeled t herapeutic agents, and the potential of these techniques in the development of novel biologic therapies. Functional imaging with radiolabeled tracers will play an increasingly important role in modem medicine, and its impact will be substantial in the management of patients with various disorders. ( C) 2000 Published by Elsevier Science B.V; All rights reserved.