The goal of this research project is to validate in humans a new ligand with picomolar affinity for the serotonin transporter. It will permit quantitative measurement of serotonin transporter (5- HTT) sites in living brain by imaging with single photon emission tomography (SPECT). The serotonin transporter is known to play a critical role in several physiological and pathophysiological processes, including depression, anxiety, seasonal affective disorder, bulimia, and psychosis, as demonstrated by post-mortem data, clinical efficacy of therapies affecting this target site, and imaging studies. A radiotracer that binds specifically to 5-HTT is of great utility in diagnosis, monitoring treatment, and research of these disorders. There is a need for better tracers that allow quantitation in areas of the brain with low 5-HTT densities such as the cortex. ? ? ?

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase I (R43)
Project #
1R43MH079568-01A1
Application #
7399724
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-BDCN-A (11))
Program Officer
Grabb, Margaret C
Project Start
2008-01-01
Project End
2009-11-30
Budget Start
2008-01-01
Budget End
2008-11-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2008
Total Cost
$250,000
Indirect Cost
Name
Molecular Neuroimaging, LLC
Department
Type
DUNS #
020285081
City
New Haven
State
CT
Country
United States
Zip Code
06510