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Cancer becomes significantly more manageable when detected early. Unfortunately, the absence of symptoms in its early stages often results in delayed diagnoses, as individuals are unaware of the underlying condition.
Addressing this critical issue, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is pioneering a transformative approach to cancer detection through its Research Centre for Radioisotope, Radiopharmaceutical, and Biodosimetry Technology (PRTRRB). BRIN is developing a new radiopharmacy candidate based on cyclotron technology by leveraging advanced digital technology, specifically Micro-Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (microPET/CT).
Isti Daruwati, a researcher at PRTRRB BRIN, elaborated on the rationale behind their focus on microPET/CT in their quest for innovative radiopharmaceutical candidates. “Positrons emitted by PET radiopharmaceuticalscan be used for visualisation or molecular imaging using PET cameras,” she stated in an interview with Humas BRIN at the BRIN Joint Working Area in Tamansari, Bandung. This innovative approach marks a significant advancement in nuclear medicine, particularly early cancer detection.
PET/CT hybrid cameras, integral to this research, are susceptible and crucial for early cancer detection. As Isti elaborates, “The success of cancer prevention or treatment is determined by the rate of early detection. These PET/CT cameras are sensitive, especially in early cancer detection, and BRIN supports through PET/CT for animal cancer model imaging.” The research employs mice to develop new radiopharmaceutical candidates, underscoring the preclinical trial phase before human testing.
PET/CT technology plays a pivotal role in this development. The cameras detect the function of organs and systems within the human body, particularly for cancer, by illustrating the molecular metabolism of body tissues in various organs in three dimensions.
Isti explained, “PET/CT initial research was carried out by combining information from functional information components such as changes in body cell metabolism from PET, and morphological information and location of a body abnormality from CT. Thus, providing accurate information and diagnosis of a variety of diseases more accurate, especially for cases of oncology.”
In preclinical trials, PET/CT cameras inject small doses of radioactive substances in the form of radiopharmaceuticals through the blood vessels, specifically into the tail of the mice. The imaging is then performed using the microPET/CT scanner while the animal is anesthetised and positioned accordingly. This meticulous process ensures accurate imaging and data collection, which is crucial for the next phase of clinical trials.
Isti expressed optimism about the future applications of this research. “When this research has been successful on mouse, a phase of clinical trials will be carried out, until it can finally be used for humans,” she noted. The ultimate goal is to aid the Indonesian population in achieving accurate diagnoses, receiving optimal treatments, and consequently reducing cancer-related pain and mortality.
The implications of this research extend beyond immediate cancer detection. Isti envisioned a future where BRIN’s research catalyses the development of numerous new radiopharmaceuticals ready to be distributed to end-users. “Through research using these microPET/CT cameras, there will be a lot of BRIN research related to new radiopharmaceuticals that are ready to be distributed to end-users,” she said.
By integrating advanced digital technology like microPET/CT, BRIN sets a new standard in cancer research and diagnosis. This innovative approach enhances early detection and paves the way for groundbreaking treatments, ultimately improving patient outcomes and contributing significantly to the global fight against cancer.
Looking ahead, BRIN is poised to expand its research and development efforts, leveraging digital technology to revolutionise healthcare in Indonesia and beyond. The successful implementation of microPET/CT technology represents the beginning of BRIN’s broader strategy to enhance medical diagnostics and treatment through cutting-edge digital innovations.
