Animal Imaging

Small-animal imaging in mice and rats has become integral to preclinical and translational biomedical research. This non-invasive approach allows for in vivo assessment of biological structures and functions, providing quantitative data on normal and diseased tissues such as tumors, as well as surrounding reactive normal tissues. Its non-invasive nature enables longitudinal studies of rodent models, reducing biological variability and minimizing the number of animals required. These models, expanding exponentially with advances in genetic engineering, offer invaluable insights into the natural history of diseases and treatment responses, which are difficult to replicate in vitro.
 

The Animal Imaging Core offers a comprehensive suite of animal imaging modalities, including MRI, PET, CT, SPECT, and ultrasound, all commonly used in clinical settings, enhancing the likelihood that findings in animal models will be translatable to human patients. Key instruments include 7.0T and 9.4T MRI systems, PET/MR, PET/CT, SPECT/CT, and advanced ultrasound systems, alongside specialized equipment including a small animal radiation therapy unit and a variety of ancillary tools for advanced imaging analysis.