The research interests of my group are in developing novel molecular imaging probes for the early detection of biological abnormalities and the efficacy evaluation of disease treatments. The general approach of my research involves multidisciplinary collaborations to identify functional molecules or substrates for specific disease targets (e.g. monoclonal antibodies, peptides, gene/mRNA targeting oligonucleotides, and small biomolecules, etc.) in collaborations with molecular and cell biologists; and modify the molecules and design precursors so that, while maintaining the desired biological activity, the compounds can be tagged with cyclotron-produced radioisotopes that emit positrons, which annihilate with electrons, resulting in a pair of 511 kev photons that travel in opposite directions, or gamma photons for in vivo noninvasive detection and investigation of diseases via small animal nuclear imaging instruments: Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography SPECT). The current research in my laboratory includes: (1)Preparation of biocompatible nanoscale scaffolds that enable multi-valent presentation of functionalities for detection and intervention of disease states by coupling with various functional molecules; (2) Design and in vivo evaluation of a series of hybrid agents featuring both radiometal bifunctional chelators and bisphosphonates (commonly used in the treatment of bone metastasis) for SPECT/PET bone scans and radiotherapeutic/palliative treatment of bone metastasis; and (3)Development of PET/SPECT imaging probes to assess the mass and functions of beta-cell islets.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
Develop PET/SPECT imaging probes to assess biological abnormalities
