Publication date: Jun 15, 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has been linked to significant neurological complications, including neuroinflammation. This mini review explores the application of the radiopharmaceutical [F]DPA-714 in neuroinflammation studies in post-SARS-CoV-2 patients using Positron Emission Tomography – Computed Tomography (PET-CT) imaging technology. [F]DPA-714, a specific ligand for the translocator protein (TSPO), enables precise visualization and quantification of microglial activation, a key marker of neuroinflammation. Recent studies demonstrate that post-COVID-19 patients exhibit increased uptake of [F]DPA-714 in various brain regions, correlating with persistent symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and mood alterations. The application of [F]DPA-714 in longitudinal studies can monitor the progression of neuroinflammation and evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic interventions, allowing personalized treatment adjustments. Additionally, exploring new TSPO ligands can complement data obtained with [F]DPA-714, offering a more comprehensive view of neuroinflammatory processes. This article discusses the technical challenges in synthesizing and applying [F]DPA-714, including the need for standardized imaging protocols and variability in binding due to genetic polymorphisms in TSPO. As a conclusion that [F]DPA-714 is a valuable tool for research and treatment of neuroinflammation in post-SARS-CoV-2 patients, with significant implications for the development of personalized therapies and clinical monitoring.

Semantics

Original Article