Events Calendar

Simultaneous microPET/microMRI: Why's, What's and Applications

Speaker: Dr. Russell E. Jacobs, California Institute of Technology (CALTECH)

Talk Title: Simultaneous microPET/microMRI: Why's, What's and Applications

Series: Medical Imaging Seminar Series

Abstract: Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are used extensively in both the research and clinical settings. In this project we combine them in a single instrument that will simultaneously record data in both imaging modalities. his system is dedicated to the study of small animal model systems at the highest spatial and temporal resolutions attainable. We have built a high resolution, relatively high sensitivity multi-slice mPET scanner integrated within a customized 7T/30cm small animal MR system that simultaneously records MR and PET images. In this talk I will briefly introduce the PET and MR imaging methodologies, discuss the rational for combining them in a single instrument, and present some results in oncology, multiple sclerosis, & vascular disease. Briefly, simultaneous mPET/mMRI recordings provide important correlations not available from temporally and spatially separate scans. The melded system provides high resolution anatomical reference systems for mPET studies. The 'in register' mMR images can be used to compute scatter and attenuation in the mPET images and to estimate partial volume errors in the PET scans, thus aiding quantification of the PET signal. This system will open up a number of opportunities not possible with current independent technologies. Among them are:

- Time correlated mPET and MR spectroscopy studies of drug distributions; cardiac, brain and tumor cell metabolism.

- Simultaneous fMRI and mPET neuroreceptor brain mapping studies in small animals.

- Validation of new MRI probes using their PET counterparts.

- Dual PET/MRI labels will allow for "zooming-in" the MRI data collection scheme to those regions of the specimen
containing the label, as well as providing for precise registration of the PET & MR images.



Biography: Russell E. Jacobs has more than 30 years experience in the theory, hardware/software development and application of high resolution preclinical MRI. Extensive history of supervising successful Post Doctoral fellows, graduate students, undergraduates, and technicians. Animal models understudy have included: embryonic development, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's Disease, cancer, and substance abuse. He is also heavily involved in several multimodal imaging efforts including contrast agent developments and implementation of a simultaneous dual PET/MRI scanner, and quantitative analysis of MR images using an array of computational warping and statistical parametric analyses.



Host: Professor Justin Haldar

More Info: http://mhi.usc.edu/medical-imaging-seminar-series/

Location: Hughes Aircraft Electrical Engineering Center (EEB) - 248

Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

Contact: Talyia Veal

Event Link: http://mhi.usc.edu/medical-imaging-seminar-series/