What physiological aspect does 15O-Gas measure during PET imaging?

15O-Gas is specifically used in PET imaging to measure oxygen metabolism, making it a critical tool in assessing cerebral and myocardial oxygen utilization. When injected, 15O-labeled oxygen quickly travels through the bloodstream and is utilized by tissues, allowing for the visualization of regional blood flow and metabolic activity. The uptake of this radiotracer directly correlates with the metabolic demands of tissues, particularly in organs like the brain and heart, which require a constant supply of oxygen to function optimally.

This characteristic makes oxygen metabolism a crucial biomarker in various clinical applications, including the diagnosis and management of conditions such as stroke, cardiac disease, and tumors, where understanding metabolic activity is essential for determining functionality and treatment avenues.