New Targets for Imaging in Nuclear Medicine

Abstract

Nuclear medicine is rapidly evolving with new molecular imaging targets and advanced computational tools that promise to enhance diagnostic precision and personalized therapy. Recent years have seen a surge in novel PET and SPECT tracers, such as those targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) in prostate cancer, fibroblast activation protein (FAP) in tumor stroma, and tau protein in neurodegenerative disease. These tracers enable more specific visualization of disease processes compared to traditional agents, fitting into a broader shift toward precision imaging in oncology and neurology. In parallel, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning techniques are being integrated into tracer development and image analysis. AI-driven methods can accelerate radiopharmaceutical discovery, optimize pharmacokinetic properties, and assist in interpreting complex imaging datasets. This editorial provides an expanded overview of emerging imaging targets and techniques, including theranostic applications that pair diagnosis with radionuclide therapy, and examines how AI is augmenting nuclear medicine. We discuss the implications of these advancements within the field’s historical trajectory and address the regulatory, manufacturing, and clinical challenges that must be navigated. Innovations in molecular targeting and AI are poised to transform nuclear medicine practice, enabling more personalized diagnostics and radiotheranostic strategies in the era of precision healthcare.