Novel Photon Counting Detector for Small Animal SPECT/MRI

Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) maintains an important role in the study of disease models in small animals. Although rich in physiological information content, the interpretation of SPECT data is challenging because SPECT images lack anatomical information. While high-resolution SPECT systems suitable for small animal imaging have been developed, none of these is compatible with small animal MRI systems to form a combined SPECT/MRI modality, which would provide the anatomical information. This project will develop a cost-effective, high-resolution, digital, photon-counting detector for small animal SPECT that could be integrated into existing small animal MRI systems. The module will consist of a new and specially-designed CMOS Digital Pixel Sensor (DPS) readout coupled to a high sensitivity radiation sensor. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of developing a high resolution photon-counting ¿-ray detector for simultaneous SPECT/MRI combined imaging, based on a radiation sensor coupled to this newly-designed DPS sensor. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee The new detector should have widespread use in small animal and human multi-modality imaging systems. Additionally, the readout sensor should have applications in photon-counting X-ray imaging, bioluminescence imaging, nondestructive testing, and homeland security