Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor PET/CT: A Promising Molecular Imaging Tool.

Punit Sharma, Shashank Shekhar Singh, Shankaramurthy Gayana

Clinical nuclear medicine 2021 Mar 01

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Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is a cell membrane-bound serine peptidase, overexpressed in cancer-associated fibroblasts and activated fibroblasts at wound healing/inflammatory sites. Recently, molecular PET/CT imaging with radiolabeled FAP inhibitor (FAPI) has been evaluated in different diseases. We aimed to assess its potential role based on the available literature. We conducted a comprehensive review of the available preclinical and clinical data on FAPI PET/CT in an attempt to summarize its current status and potential future role. Based on that, we have discussed the pathophysiology behind FAP-based imaging, followed by a discussion of FAPI radiopharmaceuticals including their synthesis, biodistribution, and dosimetry. Next, we have discussed studies evaluating FAPI PET/CT in different oncological and nononcological pathologies. The potential of FAPI PET/CT in theranostics has also been addressed. Based on the early scientific evidence available, including preclinical and clinical studies, FAPI PET/CT seems to be a promising molecular imaging tool, especially in oncology. It can be used for imaging different types of cancers and outperforms 18F-FDG PET/CT in some of these. Its potential as a theranostic tool warrants special attention. Fibroblast activation protein inhibitor PET/CT has the potential to emerge as a powerful molecular imaging tool in the future. However, as of yet, the available evidence is limited, warranting further research and trials in this field. Copyright © 2020 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Citation

Punit Sharma, Shashank Shekhar Singh, Shankaramurthy Gayana. Fibroblast Activation Protein Inhibitor PET/CT: A Promising Molecular Imaging Tool. Clinical nuclear medicine. 2021 Mar 01;46(3):e141-e150