MR spectroscopy of tumors show elevated tCho resonances, reflecting increased levels of phosphocholine. This arises from overexpression of choline kinase (ChoK), which can be detected in breast tumor models using targeted near-infrared (NIR) probes and fluorescence optical imaging. This study translates these findings into lung cancer models, measuring elevated ChoK expression and activity in murine and human lung cancer cells and elevated ChoK levels in spontaneous canine adenocarcinomas. Dual modality molecular imaging could be employed using MRI and MRS for tumor staging, followed by NIR imaging for intraoperative surgical guidance, margin detection, and residual tumor removal, increasing patient survival.
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