Molecular Imaging
The Benefits of Molecular Imaging in Drug Discovery
In the world of drug discovery, we are continuously looking for ways to improve and accelerate the process of developing new therapies to treat diseases like cancer. One of the key techniques used in this process is molecular imaging, a powerful tool that enables us to visualize and track biological processes at the molecular and cellular level. Explore how molecular imaging is used in drug discovery and the benefits it provides to researchers.
What is molecular imaging?
Molecular Imaging is a non-invasive medical tool that provides detailed pictures of what happening inside the body at the molecular and cellular level.
All along preclinical steps, molecular imaging lets us visualize and quantify biological processes in real time, providing insights into drug efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and distribution. This information is integral to informed decision-making regarding which drug candidates to advance and when to terminate those that are unlikely to be successful.
How do we use molecular imaging in drug discovery?
One of the most significant benefits of molecular imaging is its ability to identify promising new drug candidates on early stage. By enabling us to monitor the molecular processes involved in disease progression and drug response, molecular imaging can help identify new therapeutic targets and lead compounds that can be developed into new drugs. This can significantly reduce the time and cost of drug discovery by enabling us to focus our efforts on the most promising candidates.
Another key benefit of molecular imaging in drug discovery is its ability to evaluate the on-target and off-target effects of candidate therapies. By monitoring drug distribution and pharmacokinetics, we can assess the specificity of a drug for its intended target and identify any potential side effects that may arise from off-target binding. This can help us optimize the properties of a drug candidate, improving its therapeutic potential while minimizing adverse effects.
Finally, molecular imaging can also be used to assess the efficacy of drug candidates in preclinical studies. By monitoring the molecular processes involved in disease progression and drug response, we can gain insights into the mechanisms of action of drug candidates and their potential to treat specific diseases. This information can be used to select the most promising candidates for clinical development, increasing the likelihood of success in later-stage trials.
Examples of molecular imaging techniques in drug discovery
Several molecular imaging techniques are used in drug discovery, including positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and optical imaging. Nuclear imaging (PETand SPECT) is perhaps the most widely used in drug discovery due to its sensitivity and ability to provide quantitative information on drug distribution and pharmacokinetics.
Nuclear imaging applications in drug discovery and development generally focus on pharmacokinetic profiles. The reason for this is that nuclear imaging enables the non-invasive measurement of drug distribution and pharmacokinetics, allowing researchers to determine the optimal dosing regimen and assess the potential for drug-drug interactions.
Advancing Precision Medicine with Pharmaco-Imaging: an Innovative Approach at Oncodesign Services
In line with our mission of contributing to the discovery of innovative therapies and diagnostic tools, we have developed a cutting-edge pharmaco-imaging capabilities that enables us to evaluate
- the biodistribution of drugs,
- monitor the expression and engagement of in vivo targets,
- assess the effect of therapeutic treatments,
- determine the pharmacodynamics of drug candidates.
To support proof of concept in pharmacology, this non-invasive approach can significantly reduce the number of animals needed for testing and improve the efficiency and speed of drug discovery programs.
Our pharmaco-imaging discovery services leverages our expertise in molecular imaging and pharmacology, providing researchers with access to state-of-the-art facilities to accelerate their drug discovery programs. Our integrated approach – DRIVE-MRT – encompasses all the skills, experience and technology plateforms needed to generate new targeted radiopharmaceutical products and support drug discovery in the fields of oncology, neurology, infectious deseases, and inflammation.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your drug discovery goals.