FDG Based PET/CT Scan: A Method of Using Radiotracer for Non-invasive Imaging of Tumor Metabolism

-- Tumor cells show high glycolic activity. Radio tracers such as F18 fluorodeoxyglucose-- FDG-- are glucose analogs used for observing cancerous tissues. First, measure the radioactivity decay of the FDG solution in a dose calibrator. Draw FDG solution in an insulin syringe and place in a lead syringe holder. Place a mouse at a warm temperature, to prevent brown adipose tissue activation. Activated brown adipose tissue leads to more FDG uptake. Anesthetize the mouse for two minutes and transfer it to a restrainer. Prick the tail and measure blood glucose level. Hyperglycemia can lead to reduced uptake of FDG by the lungs.

Under warm conditions, sanitize and dilate the tail vein of the mouse. Inject FDG solution. Transfer the mouse inside the anesthetic chamber for systemic FDG distribution. Inside the cancer cell, hexokinase converts FDG to FDG 6 phosphate, which can't metabolize further, thus accumulates inside the cell. Secure the mouse in supine position under anesthesia in an imaging chamber. Perform PET/CT imaging. After imaging, let the mouse recover in the cage. Positron emission from F18 is recorded during the PET scan, while the CT scan shows X-ray images of the tissues.