Targeted Molecular Agents Set To Move Imaging Beyond Diagnostics

Main Category: MRI / PET / Ultrasound
Also Included In: Radiology / Nuclear Medicine
Article Date: 10 Jan 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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Imaging agents that can work at the cellular level are positioned to propel noninvasive diagnostics into a new era. These molecular imaging agents can associate with highly specific markers on the surface of cells to provide unparalleled specificity, creating new opportunities for visualization, targeted drug delivery, and mapping physiological changes over time.

The initial impact of molecular imaging agents is being seen in the traditional domain of diagnostic imaging's role in disease detection. Emerging areas being enabled by targeted imaging agents include differential diagnostics, image-guided drug delivery, physiological process mapping, and therapeutic screening.

While molecular imaging is expected to have a substantial impact across all healthcare segments, the most significant progress so far has been in the field of oncology, with targeted agents now available for a number of tumor markers including EGFR receptors, Integrin αvβ3, CEA, MC-1 Receptor, and folate receptor. A growing number of neurological agents for specific markers such as the amyloidosis group of diseases, CB1, SERT and dopamine receptors have also been identified.

In terms of modalities, SPECT and PET have been the primary beneficiaries of development efforts in targeted imaging agents, with more than half of known molecular agents qualified for these modalities. PET tracers have recently been adapted to image gene expression, which will become increasingly important in the assessment of new genetic therapies for cardiovascular disease and cancer.

These are just some of the finds of a recent survey that are now available in a comprehensive report - Molecular Imaging Agents: Evolving Capabilities, Emerging Opportunities.

More information is also available at http://www.applieddata.org.

About Applied Data

Applied Data Research is a healthcare therapeutics consulting firm focused on medical market strategies, product commercialization, venture development, and market research. We assist medical market participants in achieving their business objectives through the creation of detailed business development strategies, product commercialization programs, and comprehensive market and technology research and analysis.

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