Small-animal SPECT and SPECT/CT: application in cardiovascular research

Preclinical cardiovascular research using noninvasive radionuclide and hybrid imaging systems has been extensively developed in recent years. Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is based on the molecular tracer principle and is an established tool in noninvasive imaging. SPECT uses gamma cameras and collimators to form projection data that are used to estimate (dynamic) 3-D tracer distributions in vivo. Recent developments in multipinhole collimation and advanced image reconstruction have led to sub-millimetre and sub-half-millimetre resolution SPECT in rats and mice, respectively. In this article we review applications of microSPECT in cardiovascular research in which information about the function and pathology of the myocardium, vessels and neurons is obtained. We give examples on how diagnostic tracers, new therapeutic interventions, pre- and postcardiovascular event prognosis, and functional and pathophysiological heart conditions can be explored by microSPECT, using small-animal models of cardiovascular disease

SPECT imaging of D2 dopamine receptors and endogenous dopamine release in mice

Purpose: The dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) is important in the mediation of addiction. [123I]iodobenzamide (IBZM), a SPECT ligand for the D2R, has been used for in vivo studies of D2R availability in humans, monkeys, and rats. Although mouse models are important in the study of addiction, [123I]IBZM has not been used in mice SPECT studies. This study evaluates the use of [123I]IBZM for measuring D2R availability in mice. Methods: Pharmacokinetics of [123I]IBZM in mice were studied with pinhole SPECT imaging after intravenous (i.v.) injection of [123I]IBZM (20, 40, and 70 MBq). In addition, the ability to measure the release of endogenous dopamine after amphetamine administration with [123I]IBZM SPECT was investigated. Thirdly, i.v. administration, the standard route of administration, and intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of [123I]IBZM were compared. Results: Specific binding of [123I]IBZM within the mouse striatum could be clearly visualized with SPECT. Peak specific striatal binding ratios were reached around 90 min post-injection. After amphetamine administration, the specific binding ratios of [123I]IBZM decreased significantly (?27.2%; n=6; p=0.046). Intravenous administration of [123I]IBZM led to significantly higher specific binding than i.p. administration of the same dose. However, we found that i.v. administration of a dose of 70 MBq [123I]IBZM might result in acute ethanol intoxication because ethanol is used as a preparative aid for the routine production of [123I] IBZM. Conclusions: Imaging of D2R availability and endogenous dopamine release in mice is feasible using [123I]IBZM single pinhole SPECT. Using commercially produced [123I] IBZM, a dose of 40 MBq injected i.v. can be recommended.Radiation, Radionuclides and ReactorsApplied Science