AJNR has just released an open-access supplemental issue focused on Metabolic Brain Mapping. Guest Editor Pravat K. Mandal invited 6 Review Articles and 3 Original Research studies for this peer-reviewed overview of neurochemical and metabolic profiling of the brain through molecular imaging tools such as MR spectroscopy and PET. These techniques provide in vivo neurochemical analysis of specific brain regions and offer an incredible resource for exploring the basis of CNS disorders. The invention of novel acquisition and analysis techniques continues to push the scope of molecular imaging as a tool in the clinical development of both reliable diagnostic biomarkers and targeted therapeutics.

“The aim of this issue is to increase discussion on the potential of molecular imaging as an effective clinical tool. We sincerely hope that this collection of articles will inspire further molecular imaging research, particularly toward neurotransmitter and receptor mapping in CNS disorders,” said Dr. Mandal.