Introduction

One role of this Section is to develop new molecular probes for the imaging and quantitative measurement of radioligands for various targets in animals and human. These probes are designed on the basis of principles for probing the biological functions and molecules, and evaluated using cells and animals etc. Development of methodology for radiolabeling PET probes is another component of the Section's research. This includes the exploration of 1) reproducible synthesis of useful radioactive intermediates, 2) practical labeling reactions coupled with automated synthesis system, 3) production and usefulness of PET probes with high specific activity.

Research Introduction

We are developing molecular probes for imaging and qualifying various protein targets (e.g., neurotransmitters, transporters, enzymes) in brain and cancer etc. The targets include acetyl and butylcholine esterase, multi-drug resistance proteins, TSPO (previously known as PBR) and mGluR1. Candidate probes are designed, synthesized and evaluated in cells and animals. Successful probes are then introduced into clinical investigation with PET.

Development of radiolabeling technique with positron-emitting isotopes is indispensible for successful probe development, and is a main component of this Team's study. This includes the study of 1) reliable synthesis of radiolabeling agents, 2) development of useful labeling reactions, 3) production and utilization of PET probes with ultra-high specific activity (>100 Ci/micromole).

members