Journal Article

FZJ-2025-03593

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Advancements in non-invasive visualization of the immune environment in glioblastoma: A Systematic Review

Lohmann, P.FZJ* ; Schäfer, L. ; Krause, S.FZJ* ; Altunay, B. ; Willuweit, A.FZJ* ; Werner, J.-M. ; Galldiks, N.FZJ* ; Langen, K.-J.FZJ* ; Mottaghy, F. M.FZJ* ; Lütje, S. (Corresponding author)

2025
Oxford University Press Oxford

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Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.1093/noajnl/vdaf176  doi:10.34734/FZJ-2025-03593

Abstract: Background: Glioblastoma is known for its highly immunosuppressive microenvironment, hindering the efficacy of immunotherapies. Noninvasive imaging like immuno-positron emission tomography (PET) offers the potential for visualizing immune dynamics within glioblastoma, potentially aiding in patient selection and treatment monitoring. This systematic review evaluates immuno-PET tracers currently under investigation for the noninvasive visualization of the immune environment in glioblastoma.Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed and Web of Science up to March 2025, using keywords related to glioblastoma, immuno-PET, immune compartments, and specific tracers. Studies were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, focusing on the development, characterization, or application of immuno-PET tracers targeting immune cells or immune checkpoint molecules in glioblastoma.Results: Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria, exploring tracers targeting immune checkpoints and immune cell populations. Full-length antibodies demonstrated higher tumor specificity and retention compared to smaller fragments but showed longer circulation times. Peptide-based tracers and affibodies offered improved pharmacokinetics with rapid clearance and lower nonspecific uptake but encountered hurdles in ensuring adequate tumor targeting and retention. Advancements included dual-modal tracers combining PET and near-infrared fluorescence imaging for enhanced diagnostic and intraoperative applications.Conclusions: Significant progress has been made in developing immuno-PET tracers for noninvasive visualization of immune reactions in glioblastoma. Challenges persist in clinical translation due to issues like blood-brain barrier permeability and safety profiles. Continued research and clinical evaluations are essential to harness the potential of immuno-PET in improving glioblastoma diagnosis, assessment of treatment response, and guiding personalized immunotherapy strategies, ultimately aiming to enhance patient outcomes.Keywords: brain tumors; glioma; immune imaging; immuno-PET; immunotherapy.

Note: German Research Foundation (DFG) within the framework of the Research Training Group 2375 “Tumor-targeted Drug Delivery” (grant 331065168)

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. Physik der Medizinischen Bildgebung (INM-4)
2. Kognitive Neurowissenschaften (INM-3)

Research Program(s):

1. 5253 - Neuroimaging (POF4-525) (POF4-525)
2. GRK 2375 - GRK 2375: Tumor-Targeted Drug Delivery (331065168) (331065168)

Appears in the scientific report 2025

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