Molecular Imaging Laboratory

This resource includes a microPET scanner and equiment for autoradiography and gamma counting which will allow for implementation of protocols designed for molecular target validation.

MicroPET Scanner

MicroPET is a dedicated high performance (8 microliters spatial resolution) small animal (rodent) PET scanner for research using animal models of human disease. For comparison, a clinical PET scanner provides a 64 microliters spatial resolution volume. Non-invasive, in-vivo imaging with the microPET allows serial and longitudinal studies to be performed in the same animal, providing the opportunity to follow a single animal over time and to monitor the effects of interventions on disease progression and outcome.

Features:
Axial Field-of View: 8 cm
Animal Port Diameter: 12 cm
In-plane Linear Sampling Distance: 1.2 mm
Transaxial Resolution (center FOV): 1.85 mm
Matrix: 0.72 x 0.72 x 1.3 mm3

For more information on the use of the MicroPET contact Joseph D. Kalen, Ph.D., MSHA, Co-Director, Molecular Imaging Center by email jdkalen@.vcu.edu or John D. Wilson, Ph.D., Director of the Molecular Imaging Laboratory jdwilson@vcu.edu

Click here for more information on the MicroPET.

Cryomacrotome

A Leica CM 3600 cryomacrotome, located in the imaging laboratory, is available to produce frozen sections of isolated organs and whole-animals (maximum specimen size: 450 x 150 x 70 mm). These sections can be used to obtain quantitative measurements of labeled compounds for biodistribution and radiation dosimetry studies using standard autoradiographic (phosphorimaging) techniques. The instrument is controlled by a PC through a graphical user interface. Software menus allow customized information about each section to be recorded for documentation of GLP.

Phosphorimager

A BAS-5000 phosphorimager, which allows visualization of the distribution of radioactivity in tissue sections, is located in the imaging laboratory. A variety of imaging screens are available to accommodate the use of either standard beta or positron emitting isotopes in imaging studies. The imager uses 20 x 25 cm screens and features the ability to switch between resolutions of 25 and 50 microns. The PC-controller includes image analysis software that allows quantitative measurements of radioactivity in user-defined regions of interest to be obtained.

Phosphoimager Images from http://www.berthold.com.au/imaging_pages/BAS-5000.html
Standard Radiation Counting Instruments

Animal Facilities

Support facilities for small animal imaging experiments are located in the basement of the Gateway Building as an integral part of the Molecular Imaging Center. An animal room operated by the Division of Animal Resources is available for housing rodents. A prep room is also provided to enable investigators to perform routine pre- and post-imaging experimental procedures.

For more information on the use of theMolecular Imaging Laboratory Facilities contact John D. Wilson, Ph.D., Director of the Molecular Imaging Laboratory jdwilson@vcu.edu

Planar images of nude mouse 2 hours following injection of Tc-99m MDP