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Abstract
Positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) are
potent technologies for non-invasive imaging of pharmacological and biochemical processes in both
preclinical and advanced clinical research settings. In the field of radiation therapy, boron neutron capture
therapy (BNCT) stands out because it harnesses biological mechanisms to precisely target tumor cells
while preserving the neighboring healthy tissues. To achieve the most favorable therapeutic outcomes,
the delivery of boron-enriched tracers to tumors must be selective and efficient, with a substantial
concentration of boron atoms meticulously arranged in and around the tumor cells. Although several
BNCT tracers have been developed to facilitate the targeted and efficient delivery of boron to tumors,
only a few have been labeled with PET or SPECT radionuclides. Such radiolabeling enables comprehensive
in vivo examination, encompassing crucial aspects such as pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, tumor
selectivity, and accumulation and retention of the tracer within the tumor. This review provides a
comprehensive summary of the essential aspects of BNCT tracers, focusing on their radiolabeling with
PET or SPECT radioisotopes. This leads to more effective and targeted treatment approaches which
ultimately enhance the quality of patient care with respect to cancer treatment

Sajid Mushtaq1,2,, Park Ji Ae1, Jung Young Kim1, Kyo Chul Lee1, Kwang Il Kim1
1. Division of Applied RI, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences (KIRAMS) Seoul 01812, Republic of Korea.
2. Department of Nuclear Engineering, Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences, P. O. Nilore, Islamabad 45650, Pakistan.
 Corresponding author: Sajid Mushtaq, Division of RI-Applied Research, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences (KIRAMS) Seoul 01812, Republic
of Korea. Telephone number: +02-970-1660; Fax number: +02-970-1341; E-mail address: sajidmushtaq@pieas.edu.pk.