Description
Nuclear Medicine and Biology publishes original research addressing all aspects of radiopharmaceutical science for imaging as well as therapeutic applications. More specifically the synthesis (automated and manual), in vitro and ex vivo studies, in vivo biodistribution by dissection or imaging, radiopharmacology, radiopharmacy of new radiopharmaceuticals. Translational studies of novel targeted radiopharmaceuticals, e.g. first in human use, are warmly welcomed. In addition, in vivo imaging studies using radioactive tracers for physiological and pathophysiological research or drug discovery support are welcome. In all cases, the importance of the target to an unmet clinical need should be the first consideration. These multidisciplinary studies should validate the mechanism of localization whether the tracer is based on binding to a receptor, enzyme, antigen, or another well-defined target. The studies should be aimed at evaluating how the chemical and radiopharmaceutical properties affect pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, or therapeutic efficacy. Ideally, the study would address the sensitivity of the tracer to changes in disease or treatment, although studies validating mechanism alone are acceptable as well. In the case of therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals, the specificity of labeled compound localization and therapeutic effect should be addressed. If the synthesis of a new radiopharmaceutical is submitted without in vitro or in vivo data, then the uniqueness of the chemistry must be emphasized and should provide a substantial improvement over existing methodologies. Articles related to radiopharmacy, addressing the issues of preparation, automation, quality control, dispensing, and regulations applicable to qualification and administration of radiopharmaceuticals to humans, are also welcome if the article provides a significant impact on the field.
