Genetics The delivery of a radioactive compound to the body to study the metabolism of tissues is called _ Select one:
a. MRI
b. DSR
c. PET
d. DSA
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is c. PET (Positron Emission Tomography).
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is an imaging technique used in nuclear medicine to observe metabolic processes in the body. This technique involves the administration of a radioactive tracer (usually a compound that emits positrons) into the body. These tracers are often glucose analogs, which are absorbed by tissues and organs based on their metabolic activity.
Once the tracer is injected into the bloodstream, it is taken up by tissues, especially those with high metabolic activity, such as the brain, heart, and cancerous tumors. The radioactive tracers emit positrons, which interact with electrons in the body, producing gamma rays. These gamma rays are detected by the PET scanner, creating detailed images of the distribution of the tracer in the body. This allows doctors to observe how tissues metabolize certain compounds, helping in the diagnosis and treatment planning of diseases like cancer, neurological disorders, and heart diseases.
PET is particularly valuable for studying the brain, as it can show how different areas of the brain are active at various times, providing insights into neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, and Parkinson’s disease. It is also widely used in oncology to identify cancer cells and monitor their response to treatment.
Unlike MRI or CT scans, which mainly provide structural images of the body, PET provides functional and metabolic data. This makes it a critical tool in research and clinical settings, offering insights into disease mechanisms and treatment effectiveness.