EUROPEAN METPETS GROUP
Neurotransmitters mediate most communication in the brain, so a key goal of neuroscience is to identify the factors regulating this release. PET and SPECT techniques are currently the only way in which neurotransmitter release in the brain can be measured; this is well proven for one transmitter, dopamine, where studies have revealed important roles in addiction, schizophrenia, and depression. However the challenges of developing such tracers are so immense that over the past decade there has been little progress with tracers for other transmitters despite the clear need. The best way to progress this critical area is to enable the major European imaging centres to act as an integrated network.
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