Application of advanced brain positron emission tomography–based molecular imaging for a biological framework in neurodegenerative proteinopathies

• Main Authors: Daniela Perani, Leonardo Iaccarino, Andreas H. Jacobs, IMBI Brain Imaging Working Group, Adriaan A. Lammertsma, Agneta Nordberg, Albert D. Windhorst, Alexander Gerhard, Alexandra Winkeler, Anthony Gee, Bertrand Kuhnast, Christer Halldin, David Brooks, Elena Rodriguez‐Vieitez, Federico E. Turkheimer, Francisco López‐Picón, Gitte M. Knudsen, Johnny Vercouillie, Juha O. Rinne, Karl Herholz, Koen Van Laere, Andrea Varrone, Marie Joao Santiago‐Ribeiro, Matthias M. Herth, Michael A. Carroll, Sylvie Chalon, Michel Bottlaender, Oskar Hansson, Paul Edison, Rainer Hinz, Ronald Boellaard, Rosa Maria Moresco, Sabina Pappata
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wiley 2019-12-01
• Series: Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Diagnosis, Assessment & Disease Monitoring
• Subjects: PET molecular imaging; Radiotracers; Protheinopathies; Amyloid; Tau; Neuroinflammation
• Online Access: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dadm.2019.02.004

Abstract Introduction A rapid transition from a clinical‐based classification to a pathology‐based classification of neurodegenerative conditions, largely promoted by the increasing availability of imaging biomarkers, is emerging. The Framework for Innovative Multi‐tracer molecular Brain Imaging, funded by the EU Joint Program ‐ Neurodegenerative Disease Research 2016 “Working Groups for Harmonisation and Alignment in Brain Imaging Methods for Neurodegeneration,” aimed at providing a roadmap for the applications of established and new molecular imaging techniques in dementia. Methods We consider current and future implications of adopting a pathology‐based framework for the use and development of positron emission tomography techniques. Results This approach will enhance efforts to understand the multifactorial etiology of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Discussion The availability of pathology biomarkers will soon transform clinical and research practice. Crucially, a comprehensive understanding of strengths and caveats of these techniques will promote an informed use to take full advantage of these tools.