β-Cell Mass Imaging with DTBZ Positron Emission Tomography: Is it Possible?

The article discusses beta-cell mass (BCM) imaging with dihydrotetrabenazine (DTBZ) positron emission tomography (PET). It reveals that the preservation of BCM is an important approach to prevent diabetes mellitus. Studies conducted by R. Goland et al and M. D. Normandin et al concludes that BCM quantification is feasible in healthy human controls and in patients with type 1 (T1DM) diabetes. It outlines factors that should be considered when interpreting the results of PET imaging.