Innovative Radiotracers in Neurodegenerative Studies: Implications and Applications

Neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, are progressive conditions marked by neuronal loss, neuroinflammation, and protein misfolding in the brain. These pathologies are typically confirmed via neuropathological examination post-mortem, yet the mechanisms driving these diseases remain not fully understood. In vivo imaging, enhanced by the development of specific PET/SPECT radiotracers, has proven pivotal in dynamic assessments of these pathologies, offering insights into disease progression and aiding in clinical trial evaluations. Despite advancements in amyloid and tau imaging for Alzheimer's, the broader mechanisms underlying various neurodegenerative diseases need further illumination to spur therapeutic innovations.

This Research Topic aims to expedite the creation of effective therapeutic and diagnostic approaches for neurodegenerative diseases. Emphasizing the exploration of novel radiotracers that target protein aggregates and critical molecules involved in brain homeostasis, such as those within neuroinflammation and protein clearance systems, this topic seeks to contribute significantly to the understanding and management of these debilitating conditions. By synthesizing up-to-date research on radiotracer development and application in model organisms, we strive to bridge the gap between laboratory findings and clinical applicability, enhancing our approach to these complex diseases.

To delve deeper into the intricate mechanisms of neurodegeneration, this Research Topic encompasses:

o Newly developed radiotracers that target misfolded proteins and other crucial brain molecules.

o Advanced methodologies in the synthesis and production of radiotracers.

o Comprehensive imaging assessments of protein-degrading systems like the ubiquitin-proteasome and autophagy-lysosome pathways.

o Imaging Studies on the glymphatic system’s role in protein clearance.

o Translational neuroimaging research using appropriate animal models.

Through these focal points, the topic underscores the translational impact of neuroimaging advancements, reinforcing the integration of innovative diagnostic tools into therapeutic development processes for neurodegenerative diseases.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• ... View all formats

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Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Policy Brief
• Review
• Systematic Review

Keywords: Neurodegenerative diseases, Radiotracers, Neuroimaging

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.