The Role of Molecular Imaging in Personalised Healthcare

Abstract

Functional molecular imaging provides a unique perspective on a disease. Methods including positron-emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging allow us to interrogate spatial and temporal changes in biomarkers as well as probe the underlying biochemistry. When imaging is combined with molecular diagnostic tools, opportunities arise for measuring aberrant cellular signalling pathways with unprecedented detail. This brief commentary illustrates how radiotracers and nuclear imaging methods are being developed to monitor drug efficacy and simultaneously support the goal of personalised healthcare.