Advances in molecular imaging for osteoarthritis

F]-NaF) can assess synovial inflammation and subchondral bone remodeling, their lack of specificity hinders further advances. We also review the recent development of radiotracers targeting specific immune and mesenchymal cell populations, such as translocator protein (TSPO) and fibroblast activation protein inhibitor (FAPI) that have demonstrated potential for characterizing the inflammatory endotype in OA and monitoring treatment response. Given the lack of validated cell-specific tracers, limited studies in early-stage or asymptomatic OA, and few longitudinal data sets, future research should prioritize development and validation of pathophysiology-specific tracers and incorporation of PET into longitudinal and interventional studies. This evolving field holds promise not only for advancing OA preclinical research but also for informing precision diagnostics and early therapeutic strategies in clinical practice.