With the use of molecular imaging there are numerous opportunities to increase your data output during preclinical testing. The non-invasive approach allows to reduce the number of animals needed and obtains valuable longitudinal read outs of endpoints which are also directly translational to the clinical setting. At Minerva Imaging we have many imaging modalities available. The latest Göttingen Minipigs Magazine published an article highlighting our capabilities in molecular imaging using CT and combined SPECT/CT of Göttingen Minipigs.

Within the article we demonstrate how we have successfully implemented a non-invasive technique to determine regional kidney function in Göttingen Minipigs using our clinical Discovery NM/CT 670 SPECT/CT scanner (GE Healthcare). Creating time-density curves showing the tissue enhancement in Hounsfield Units (HU) over time for the cortex and medulla of each kidney and the aorta makes it possible to determine the kidney flow rate. Furthermore, the article describes the use of combined SPECT/CT imaging to image physiological processes and to track the biodistribution of a molecule of interest in vivo. In a recent collaboration, a radiolabeled compound was delivered in the duodenum using endoscopic guidance with the aim of tracking its movement through the intestinal tract. The quantitative SPECT data make it possible to calculate the wash-out period for the compound and to obtain comprehensive knowledge on the biodistribution and excretion route of the compound.

Expansion

Minerva Imaging is continuously expanding and even more clinical imaging and radiochemistry modalities are added. Already this year we seek to increase the catalogue of methods offered to our collaborators. By the end of 2022, our facility in Ølstykke will be expanded with a fully integrated GMP compliant radiochemistry laboratory including a cyclotron for radioisotope production. This enables us to bring in additional imaging modalities such as PET/CT and MRI, to obtain longitudinal read-outs in large animal models across disease areas supporting translational studies.

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