Potential impact of molecular imaging in oncology

Despite all progress in molecular imaging methods, the actual number of validated new markers is still limited. The breakthrough of individual efforts is often hampered by lack of critical mass of resources. To overcome these shortcomings a "network" of multidisciplinary experts is indispensable. Focusing on cancer therapy, molecular imaging has a high potential impact in (a) early therapy monitoring and (b) prediction of therapeutic response. Novel molecular markers with high diagnostic potential reflecting apoptosis, proliferation and glucose metabolism are currently used in clinical trials for monitoring of tumor response to therapy. A further innovative approach for supporting individualized cancer therapy may be the application of radio-labelled therapeutic drugs at tracer concentrations in order to estimate their individual uptake in the tumor tissue. To meet this challenge, our group initiated a research project focusing on radio-labelling of selected molecules with proven therapeutic potential.