Application of PSMA small molecule inhibitors in PET/CT imaging of prostate cancer

Prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is highly expressed on almost all prostate cancer (PCa) cells. Its expression level is positively correlated with tumor invasion. PSMA PET/CT has high sensitivity and specificity for PCa diagnosis, and can be applied in staging newly diagnosed PCa, guiding biopsy and treatment, evaluating efficacy and monitoring biochemical recurrence. The characteristics of various radionuclide labeled PSMA small molecule inhibitors, as well as their advantages and disadvantages in PET/CT imaging and PCa clinical application, which were reviewed to facilitate the selection of appropriate tracers for accurate diagnosis and treatment according to various purposes. (authors)