Apoptosis imaging: beyond annexin V

J Nucl Med. 2010 Nov;51(11):1659-62. doi: 10.2967/jnumed.110.078584. Epub 2010 Oct 18.

Abstract

Induction of apoptosis is the primary mechanism through which most chemotherapies cause tumor cell death. Early assessment of tumor response is required to manage patients in terms of quality of life versus intensive chemotherapy. Although imaging with radiolabeled annexin V has been intensively investigated, it is still not sufficiently mature for clinical application. This article will summarize various alternative imaging techniques for visualization of phosphatidylserine externalization, activity of caspases, and mitochondrial membrane potential. Such imaging studies will promote the identification of novel molecular targets and the development of highly specific apoptosis-detecting imaging probes with potential clinical applications. It is highly possible that quantitative imaging of apoptosis will greatly improve clinical decision making in apoptosis-related diseases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Annexin A5 / analysis*
  • Annexin A5 / metabolism
  • Apoptosis*
  • Caspases / genetics
  • Caspases / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Molecular Imaging / methods*
  • Phospholipids / metabolism
  • Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • Annexin A5
  • Phospholipids
  • Proteins
  • Caspases