18F-Labeled PET Radiotracers for Imaging Neuroinflammation in the Brain

Value Proposition:

·      Quantification and PET imaging of microglial cells in the brain

·      Diagnostic for neuroinflammatory disorders – Alzheimer’s and MS

·      Favorable compound half-life enables shipping

·      Potential for non-CNS applications

Technology Description

Researchers at Johns Hopkins have developed a series of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) radiotracers for imaging activated microglia in neuroinflammatory disorders. The group synthesized multiple ¹⁸F-modified radiotracers targeting the microglia marker CSF1R. These compounds are compatible for in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro PET imaging of brain tissue, with potential for non-CNS applications. Additionally, the nature of the ¹⁸F isotope allows for easy handling and shipping due to their longer half-life.

Stage of Development

Studies completed in murine models and non-human primates.

Data Availability

Data available upon request.

Publication

Horti et al. PNAS 116:1686-1691.