Quantum sensing and imaging in the MeV regime of nuclear medicine

Abstract This paper reviews approaches to improving imaging capabilities in nuclear medicine using quantum-inspired technologies. Positron emission tomography and single-photon emission computed tomography are established diagnostic methods in nuclear medicine and are extremely useful for detecting early stage cancers and other diseases through the detection of small numbers of molecules using sub-MeV gamma rays; however, the principles of these modalities have not changed for more than five decades. Recently, quantum technologies have attracted significant attention, particularly quantum sensors and quantum entanglement in the optical-photon regime. In this review, we introduce emerging efforts that utilize quantum-inspired technologies, such as electron spin, nuclear spin and quantum entanglement in the MeV photon (gamma ray) regime. Quantum-enhanced imaging in nuclear medicine may directly contribute to improvements in diagnostic capability and patients’ quality of life.