This perspective article aims to provide an update on current trends in the research of radiolabelled siderophores for molecular imaging of bacterial infections. It begins by explaining the importance of developing novel diagnostic tools for infections and addresses the limitations of contemporary methods, including molecular imaging. The discussion then shifts to compounds currently being studied for nuclear imaging, with a focus on radiolabelled siderophores and recent advances in their development. It also provides the latest insights into the structures of siderophores, their utilisation by bacteria and their role in bacterial metabolism, as well as potential for labelling with various radioisotopes. Additionally, it presents the use of radiolabelled siderophores, both naturally occurring and artificial siderophore derivates, for imaging of various bacterial infections.

Czech Advanced Technology and Research Institute Palacký University Olomouc Czech Republic

Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry Palacký University Olomouc Czech Republic

Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine University Hospital Olomouc Czech Republic

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