Conclusions
These findings suggest that both linear and cyclic [68Ga]Ga-RP832c may function as promising PET imaging agents for CD206 macrophages, and thereby a strategy to non-invasively explore the role of macrophages during fibrogenesis.
Methods
In this study, the assessment of 68Ga-labeled linear and cyclic forms of the RP832c peptide, which demonstrate a specific affinity for CD206 macrophages, was performed to evaluate efficacy for CD206 imaging through PET/CT, biodistribution studies, and CD206 staining in a bleomycin-induced lung injury mouse model (BLM). This model serves as a representative framework for inflammation and fibrosis.
Results
The findings reveal significant peak PET/CT signals (SUV means), ID/gram values, and CD206 staining scores in lung tissues at one week post bleomycin instillation, likely due to the heightened expression of CD206 in the bleomycin-induced lung injury model. In contrast, the healthy mice exhibited no detectable CD206 staining, lower PET signals, and reduced radiopharmaceutical accumulation in lung tissues at the same timepoint. Conclusions: These findings suggest that both linear and cyclic [68Ga]Ga-RP832c may function as promising PET imaging agents for CD206 macrophages, and thereby a strategy to non-invasively explore the role of macrophages during fibrogenesis.