Molecular Imaging Insights into Neurodegeneration: Focus on Tau PET Radiotracers

Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by progressive dysfunction and neuronal death, showing specific protein inclusions at autopsy. In vivo detection of these key proteins, namely amyloid-β, tau, α-synuclein, and trans-active response DNA-binding protein 43 kDa, is possible by means of molecular neuroimaging techniques, such as PET. The development of selective PET radiotracers targeting these proteins is critical for early and accurate diagnosis and for the successful development of disease-modifying therapies. Selective PET radiotracers for amyloid-β are already available, and potential tau tracers are emerging as new-generation biomarkers. An overview of the tau-PET radiotracer development scenario, focusing on tracers that are presently being examined in humans, is presented.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s; PET; neurodegeneration; radiotracer; tau.