Liver uptake of radiolabeled targeting proteins and peptides: considerations for targeting peptide conjugate design

► Radiolabeled peptides can be used for visualization of molecular targets in vivo. ► Hepatic uptake of radioactivity decreases imaging contrast. ► Both targeting peptide and radionuclide chelator/liker influence hepatic uptake. ► Purification tags can be used to decrease hepatic uptake of radiolabeled peptides. ► Hydrophilic chelators and likers for radionuclides are preferable.