A Dual Modality Imaging System for Small Animal Imaging

The ideal biological imaging system would provide non-invasive, high-resolution, high-sensitivity three-dimensional (3D) images of living systems. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) offers high sensitivity to a range of biological processes through the use of targeted radiolabeled probes. Unfortunately, precise signal localization can be extremely difficult, due to low spatial resolution and the lack of anatomical information. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can provide high spatial resolution and excellent soft tissue contrast, but MRI suffers from poor signal strength, leading to low sensitivity. Because these single modalities do not satisfy all requirements, this project will combine the best features of PET and MR modalities into a single imaging instrument for small animal studies. The instrument will record data in both imaging modalities nearly simultaneously. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of the imaging system by designing and building PET detector modules that can be operated inside a small-animal MR scanner. The effect of the PET and MR detectors on each other will be analyzed. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the Applicant: Over and above the use in nuclear medicine, the proposed gamma-ray technology should find use in nuclear and particle physics, space research, homeland security, environmental monitoring, and synchrotron studies.