Shared Resources
In Vivo Imaging
OVERVIEW
The IVISR provides MR, photoacoustic, ultrasound, high-resolution planar gamma imaging, and PET of mice and rats. Support and expertise includes imaging physics, biological applications, animal support, image computation, diagnostic agent chemistry, preparation of F18 labeled radiotracers, and kinetic modeling.
Up to 4.7T MR imaging allows for rapid acquisition of high resolution volumes both with and without contrast. Photoacoustic imaging can create high definition images of fluorescent optical markers at greater depths, overlaid across clear ultrasound images of anatomy. High- resolution ultrasound imaging permits quantitation of tumor size, as well as, measurement of left ventricular volume for recovery correction of MR and PET sampled input functions. Most importantly it permits the use of in situ tumor models. A key contribution of ultrasound to cancer research in mice is the ability to image in sterile fashion and to do so without the need for anesthesia. This permits frequent monitoring of tumor growth or regression following interventions.
In Vivo Imaging Services
Here is a list of services provided by this resource. Please visit the Service Details page for more information.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
- Photoacoustic Imaging
- Positron Emission Tomography
- Gamma Camera Imaging
- Ultrasound
- Image Processing / Kinetic Modeling
- Protocol Development
- Training and Consultation
- Radiochemistry
Recharge Rates
Item Description | UC User Rates | Non-UC User Rates |
Consultation | $171 | $256 |
Technician labor | $53 | $80 |
Ultrasound - Equipment rental or use | $58 | $88 |
Photoacoustic - Equipment rental or use | $107 | $160 |
MRI - Equipment rental or use | $188 | $282 |
PET Scan - Equipment rental or use | $34 | $52 |
Gamma Imager - Equipment rental or use | $34 | $52 |
Pass Through Expenses - PET FDG dose | $250 | $375 |
Scheduling and Consulting
Scheduling
Since all equipment requires training before independent use, scheduling is maintained by the IVISR manager. Please contact Megan Westerland via email ( mwesterland@health.ucsd.edu) to discuss booking time on the machines and hourly rates, as well as developing protocols or procedures.
Consulting
David R. Vera, PhD
Radiopharmaceuticals and tracers
Ahmed El Kaffas, PhD
Ultrasound
Carl Hoh, MD
PET and gamma camera imaging
David Hall, PhD, DABR
Fluorescent and photoacoustic imaging
Jiang Du, PhD
MR imaging and contrast
Location
Most of the IVISR equipment is maintained in room B210 of the Moores Cancer Center, however the MRI is located next door in B207.
Contact
Director:
David R. Vera, PhD
dvera@ucsd.edu
Co-Director:
Ahmed El Kaffas, PhD
aelkaffas@ucsd.edu
Contact:
Megan Westerland, IVISR Manager
mwesterland@health.ucsd.edu