Molecular PET/CT mapping of rhACE2 distribution and quantification in
organs to aid in SARS-CoV-2 targeted therapy
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the potential of
noninvasive and repeated monitoring of rhACE2 distribution and content
in organs using the ACE2-specific nuclide probe
68Ga-HZ20. Methods We optimized the labeling
conditions of the probe and evaluated its safety. A mouse organ in
situ rhACE2 high-aggregation model was constructed for the first time,
and in vivo real-time PET imaging of rhACE2 was performed using
the ACE2-specific PET agent 68Ga-HZ20. The
distribution and uptake of the probe were analyzed, and the model was
validated. Results This radiotracer exhibited reliable
radiochemical properties in vitro and maintained a high affinity
for rhACE2 in vivo. In terms of probe uptake,
68Ga-HZ20 showed a good target-to-nontarget ratio, and
the correlation between the uptake value of the probe and the dose of
rhACE2 was >90% in both models; the probe was rapidly
cleared from the circulatory system and excreted by the kidneys and
urinary system. No organs were damaged after the injection of high doses
of probe. Conclusions This technology for noninvasively and
repeatedly monitoring the content and distribution of rhACE2 in
vivo aids in clarifying the resident capacity of rhACE2 in organs and
in analyzing the preventive effect of rhACE2 against SARS-CoV-2 and the
effectiveness of therapies for COVID-19.