Site‐specifically radiolabeled nanobodies for imaging blood‐brain barrier penetration and targeting in the brain

Abstract

Nanobodies (Nbs) hold significant potential in molecular imaging due to their unique characteristics. However, there are challenges to overcome when it comes to brain imaging. To address these obstacles, collaborative efforts and interdisciplinary research are needed. This article aims to raise awareness and encourage collaboration among researchers from various fields to find solutions for effective brain imaging using Nbs. By fostering cooperation and knowledge sharing, we can make progress in overcoming the existing limitations and pave the way for improved molecular imaging techniques in the future.

Ankyrons: There Might Be a “Gold Mine” for Students, Scientists, and Clinicians

“…The success of in vivo molecular imaging techniques relies on two crucial factors: the rapid and specific accumulation of tracers at their intended targets, and efficient clearance of the unbound tracer from the circulation . 5 Given their molecular weight of 15 kDa, similar to small proteins such as Nbs, we speculate that Ankyrons may exhibit comparable in vivo properties. This conjecture is further supported by evidence from PET imaging techniques illustrating the behavior of ankyrin repeats in vivo ( Figure 2 ).…”

“…Another crucial characteristic is that Ankyrons may exhibit favorable in vivo pharmacokinetics, aligning with the prerequisites for molecular imaging. The success of in vivo molecular imaging techniques relies on two crucial factors: the rapid and specific accumulation of tracers at their intended targets, and efficient clearance of the unbound tracer from the circulation . Given their molecular weight of 15 kDa, similar to small proteins such as Nbs, we speculate that Ankyrons may exhibit comparable in vivo properties.…”

“…At the 2023 Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging meeting, for instance, only four Nb abstracts were presented out of 85 in the targeting molecule section. The primary obstacle appears to be the accessibility of Nbs and the high costs associated with contract research organization (CRO) services . Despite the availability of in vitro screening platforms, acquiring Nbs for most research laboratories remains challenging.…”

“…The primary obstacle appears to be the accessibility of Nbs and the high costs associated with contract research organization (CRO) services. 5 Despite the availability of in vitro screening platforms, acquiring Nbs for most research laboratories remains challenging. Many imaging laboratories lack the necessary setup for biological screening, limiting the widespread application of Nbs in the field.…”