MicroSPECT/CT to aid the development of theranostics - Project Summary We propose to purchase a new Mediso nanoScan preclinical SPECT-CT scanner at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). This new SPECT-CT system will restore the preclinical SPECT-CT capability in Cleveland for the first time since the failure of our last system before the pandemic, and will efficiently synergize our extensive preclinical radionuclide imaging research programs to support 20 major users with research in a wide range of areas including development of novel theranostic agents, animal models of diseases, new therapeutic strategies, effective anti-viral therapy and exciting immunotherapies. The proposed system will not only reinstitute SPECT-CT scanning to our regional institutions, and also provide opportunities to scan larger animals (e.g., marmosets, ferrets, woodchucks, rabbits, etc.), and animal models with infectious diseases using a BSL-3 compatible sealed imaging chambers, in addition to the rodents. Overall, this system provides the capability to support a broad set basic science research throughout Northeast Ohio. The nanoScan system includes: 1) a 4-headed SPECT subsystem with 3/8” NaI crystal and fully digitized detectors; 2) multi-focus, multi-size, multi-pinhole apertures in addition to the parallel hole LEUHR collimators; 3) CT subsystem (80W/1000µA) with standard QC phantom set; 4) multiple software licenses allowing efficient SPECT-CT image analysis and visualization for multiple users at a time; and 5) an animal monitoring, respiratory gating, and temperature control to keep the animal stable during imaging. Additional options requested with this new SPECT-CT system include sealed, BSL-3 compatible imaging chambers to specifically provide support for multiple users. This new preclinical SPECT-CT capability will be available to all regional investigators and will be operated by the Imaging Research Core at CWRU which is an integral component of multiple research centers at CWRU including the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center (NCI P30CA043703), the Digestive Diseases Research Core Center (NIDDK P30 DK097948), the Clinical and Translational Science Collaborative (NCATS UL1 TR002548), the Cystic Fibrosis Research Center, and the Center for Modular Manufacturing of Structural Tissues. This ongoing support for the Imaging Research Core is in addition to the direct institutional support of $148,500 to partially offset the cost for the extended warranty. An advisory committee with highly experienced imaging and therapy faculty at CWRU and an external institution will oversee the organization and usage of the system and recommend policies to maintain system performance and maximize utilization.
