Title:The Potential of 11C-acetate PET for Monitoring the Fatty Acid Synthesis Pathway in Tumors
Volume: 14
Issue: 3
Author(s): Laura M. DeFord-Watts, Akiva Mintz and Steven J. Kridel
Affiliation:
Keywords:
11C-acetate, fatty acid synthesis, FDG, lipid, metabolism, positron emission tomography
Abstract: Positron emission tomography (PET) is a molecular imaging modality that provides the opportunity to rapidly
and non-invasively visualize tumors derived from multiple organs. In order to do so, PET utilizes radiotracers, such as
18F-FDG and 11C-acetate, whose uptake coincides with altered metabolic pathways within tumors. Increased expression
and activity of enzymes in the fatty acid synthesis pathway is a frequent hallmark of cancer cells. As a result, this pathway
has become a prime target for therapeutic intervention. Although multiple drugs have been developed that both directly
and indirectly interfere with fatty acid synthesis, an optimal means to assess their efficacy is lacking. Given that 11Cacetate
is directly linked to the fatty acid synthesis pathway, this probe provides a unique opportunity to monitor lipogenic
tumors by PET. Herein, we review the relevance of the fatty acid synthesis pathway in cancer. Furthermore, we address
the potential utility of 11C-acetate PET in imaging tumors, especially those that are not FDG-avid. Last, we discuss several
therapeutic interventions that could benefit from 11C-acetate PET to monitor therapeutic response in patients with certain
types of cancers.
