Author: ["Martin S Judenhofer","Hans F Wehrl","Danny F Newport","Ciprian Catana","Stefan B Siegel","Markus Becker","Axel Thielscher","Manfred Kneilling","Matthias P Lichy","Martin Eichner","Karin Klingel","Gerald Reischl","Stefan Widmaier","Martin Röcken","Robert E Nutt","Hans-Jürgen Machulla","Kamil Uludag","Simon R Cherry","Claus D Claussen","Bernd J Pichler"]
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Abstract
Noninvasive imaging at the molecular level is an emerging field in biomedical research. This paper introduces a new technology synergizing two leading imaging methodologies: positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Although the value of PET lies in its high-sensitivity tracking of biomarkers in vivo, it lacks resolving morphology. MRI has lower sensitivity, but produces high soft-tissue contrast and provides spectroscopic information and functional MRI (fMRI). We have developed a three-dimensional animal PET scanner that is built into a 7-T MRI. Our evaluations show that both modalities preserve their functionality, even when operated isochronously. With this combined imaging system, we simultaneously acquired functional and morphological PET-MRI data from living mice. PET-MRI provides a powerful tool for studying biology and pathology in preclinical research and has great potential for clinical applications. Combining fMRI and spectroscopy with PET paves the way for a new perspective in molecular imaging.Cite this article
Judenhofer, M., Wehrl, H., Newport, D. et al. Simultaneous PET-MRI: a new approach for functional and morphological imaging. Nat Med 14, 459–465 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1038/nm1700 