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18F-DOPA
18F-DOPA is a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agent that accumulates in dopamine-producing tissues, allowing visualization of dopaminergic function and neurological disorders.
18F-DOPA is a positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agent that accumulates in dopamine-producing tissues, allowing visualization of dopaminergic function and neurological disorders. Used for Imaging of dopaminergic function in Parkinson's disease and parkinsonian syndromes, Evaluation of pediatric movement disorders and neurological conditions affecting dopamine synthesis.
At a glance
| Generic name | 18F-DOPA |
|---|---|
| Also known as | 6-fluoro-L-DOPA, 56494, 18F-dihydroxyphenylalanine, 18F-fluoro-L-dihydroxyphenylalanine, 18F-L-Fluoro-DOPA |
| Sponsor | Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) |
| Drug class | PET imaging agent |
| Target | Dopamine synthesis pathway / Large neutral amino acid transporter |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Neurology / Diagnostic Imaging |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
18F-DOPA is a fluorine-18 labeled precursor of dopamine used as a PET tracer. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and is taken up by dopaminergic neurons via the large neutral amino acid transporter, where it is converted to 18F-dopamine. This allows imaging of dopamine synthesis capacity and neuronal integrity in conditions affecting the dopaminergic system.
Approved indications
- Imaging of dopaminergic function in Parkinson's disease and parkinsonian syndromes
- Evaluation of pediatric movement disorders and neurological conditions affecting dopamine synthesis
Common side effects
- Radiation exposure
- Allergic reaction to tracer
Key clinical trials
- Clinical Laboratory Evaluation of Chronic Autonomic Failure
- Prospective Evaluation of 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT, Octreotide and F-DOPA PET Imaging in Ectopic Cushing Syndrome (PHASE2)
- PET Scanning in Parkinson s Disease
- Diagnosis of Pheochromocytoma (PHASE1)
- Natural History of Familial Carcinoid Tumor
- [18F]F-DOPA Imaging in Patients With Autonomic Failure (PHASE1)
- An Investigational Scan (18F-DOPA PET/CT) for Improving the Clinical Management of Brain Tumors (PHASE2)
- Uncovering the Cognitive and Neural Mechanisms Underlying Cognitive Time
Primary sources
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| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |