Can sodium-potassium ATPase activity be imaged using PET or SPECT?

Abstract

Abstract The Na+/K+ pump is involved in the active transport of Na+ and K+ ions across the cell membrane, helping to maintain cell homeostasis and membrane potential. This, in turn, helps in maintaining various cellular functions. Accidental disruption or inhibition of Na+/K+ pump activity by cardiac glycosides can lead to the development of pathophysiological conditions such as cardiac problems, etc. A large number of studies has attempted to establish the structure, and function of Na+/K+- ATPase and underlying mechanism of the active ion transport. To date, there is a limited attempt in imaging Na+/K+ pump activity in vivo. Studies predominantly use nuclear imaging to assess myocardial perfusion based on Na+/K+ pump activity. However, the approach to image Na+/K+ pump activity is lacking. This dissertation helps to develop an understanding of the molecular structure of Na+/K+-ATPase, its mechanism of ion transport, among other perspectives. Based on this understanding, the research proposes a comprehensive strategy to image different aspects of Na+/K+ pump activity through a surrogate approach using PET with 18F-radiolabelled Ouabain (cardiac glycoside, as Na+/K+ pump inhibitor) and 82Rb+ radiotracers.