Contact person: 

Univ.-Prof. Dr. med. Felix M. Mottaghy
Director of the clinic 
fmottaghyukaachende 
Tel.: 0241 80 88741 

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Dr. med. Susanne Lütje 
sluetjeukaachende 
Tel.: 0241 80 85194 

Dr. rer. nat. Fabian Hertel
Research coordinator 
fhertelukaachende 
Tel.: 0241 80 35905

Overview: 
At the Department of Nuclear Medicine, our clinical research focuses on innovative topics such as the blood circulation and metabolism of the central nervous system, with a particular emphasis on neurotransmitter receptors and transporters – especially those related to dopamine. In addition, we are working on the advancement of measurement techniques and image overlay methods to improve molecular imaging using PET and PET/CT. We are also actively researching and developing therapeutic approaches, including radioiodine therapy for both benign and malignant thyroid disorders, selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT), peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), and PSMA-specific radioligand therapy (PSMA-RLT).

Focus Areas: 
Blood Circulation and Metabolism of the CNS as well as Neurotransmitter Systems 
Our research examines the complex interrelationships of blood circulation and metabolism in the central nervous system. A specific focus is placed on the investigation of neurotransmitter receptors and transporters – particularly within the dopamine system. The aim is to obtain a deeper understanding of neurological diseases and to develop novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches that specifically address the underlying biochemical processes.

Measurement Techniques and Image Overlay
To enhance diagnostic accuracy, we work on developing and optimizing advanced measurement techniques and image overlay methods. By combining different imaging modalities, detailed anatomical and functional information can be merged. These integrated approaches support more precise therapy planning and more effective monitoring of treatment success.

Molecular Imaging using PET and PET/CT
In the field of molecular imaging, we employ state-of-the-art technologies such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and PET/CT. These noninvasive procedures enable the visualization of biological processes at the molecular level, allowing for earlier detection of diseases, more precise staging of cancers, and sensitive monitoring of therapeutic adjustments.

Radioiodine Therapy for Benign and Malignant Thyroid Disorders
Another research focus is on radioiodine therapy for the treatment of thyroid disorders – both benign and malignant. By taking advantage of the thyroid tissue’s natural iodine uptake, radiation is delivered directly to pathological cells while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue as much as possible. Our studies aim to optimize dosage and establish personalized therapeutic approaches.

Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIRT)
Our clinical investigations into selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) concentrate on its application in liver tumors. In SIRT, radioactive isotopes are directly administered into the tumor's blood supply to enable localized radiation treatment. This approach minimizes systemic side effects and offers new therapeutic options for patients with limited treatment choices.

Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT)
Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) represents an innovative treatment modality that we are exploring intensively. Using radiolabeled peptides that specifically bind to tumor receptors, PRRT enables targeted radiation delivery. The goal of our research is to further refine this technique, increase tumor affinity, and reduce side effects to ensure effective treatment of neuroendocrine tumors.

PSMA-specific Radioligand Therapy (PSMA-RLT)
In the area of prostate carcinomas, and also in certain breast cancers, we are working on PSMAspecific radioligand therapy (PSMA-RLT). Through the targeted addressing of the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), a potent dose of radiation is delivered directly to the tumor cells while largely sparing healthy tissue. Our focus is on optimizing treatment protocols and exploring combination therapies to enhance the effectiveness of this targeted approach

Research on AI Applications in Nuclear Medicine
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into nuclear medicine opens up promising perspectives for image analysis and therapy planning. Our research aims to develop AI-powered algorithms for the automated evaluation of large imaging datasets, thereby improving diagnostic accuracy and efficiency in molecular imaging. By combining cutting-edge technology with clinical expertise, we strive to optimize personalized treatment approaches and provide pioneering tools for enhanced patient care in nuclear medicine.

Team:

• Univ.-Prof. Dr. med. Felix M. Mottaghy, Klinikdirektor
• Univ.-Prof. Dr. Dr. med. Susanne Lütje
• Prof. Dr. med. Dirk von Mallek
• Dr. med. Christian Boy
• Dr. med. Jonas Ihm
• Dr. med. Christian Filß
• Dr. med. Alexandru Florea
• Dr. med. Erik Karaskiwiecz
• Dr. rer. nat. Fabian Hertel