Preclinical research
The international, interdisciplinary preclinical research team includes technical assistants, nuclear medicine specialists, veterinarians, physicists, radiochemists and radiopharmacists.
In our preclinical imaging laboratory, high-resolution PET/CT technology for small animals is available, with which the same PET substances are used in the experiment that are also used in patients. Diseases can be studied in the mouse or rat model and, in particular, therapy effects can be quantitatively determined over time. Biologically relevant parameters such as metabolic or transport rates or receptor binding affinities are extracted from the in vivo imaging data using modern methods of kinetic modeling and machine learning.
The validation of animal models using PET is particularly relevant, as it is possible to compare the function in humans and animals using the same radiopharmaceutical.
Comparison between animal model and patient - neuroendocrine tumor
In patients, the PET image typically shows high somatostatin receptor binding ([68Ga]DOTATATE) in the tumor (liver metastases in this case) and normal glucose metabolism ([18F]FDG). However, transplanted human tumor cells in the neck of the mouse show altered properties (low somatostatin receptor density and high glucose metabolism).
à This animal model is not suitable for the investigation of endocrine tumors as it does not reflect the human situation.
The focus of preclinical nuclear medicine and its cooperation projects is on the following studies:
- Alzheimer's and dementia diseases
- Dizziness and balance disorders
- Epilepsies
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Long-term damage from ionizing radiation
- Muscular dystrophies
- Xenotransplantations
- nanoparticles
- Tumor research
Since imaging can be repeated several times in the same animal, it is possible to measure the time course of the signal over a longer period of time (months) and after interventions in the animal model. These serial measurements provide more stable data than group comparisons, as shown in this example:
Ga68 positron emission tomography with co-registered computed tomography in the mouse;
A.) Biodistribution of nanoparticles with Ga68 labeling: accumulation in the liver (shown in red).
B.) Biodistribution of free Ga68: accumulation in the heart and bladder (shown in red).
[18F]FDG- PET measurement in pigs
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CT scan in a pig
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The combined PET/CT enables a fusion of PET and CT without changing the position. Consequently, an exact statement can be made about the metabolism in vivo (PET) and the morphology (CT). A clear radiotracer accumulation is shown in the salivary glands, as well as the brain, heart, kidneys and bladder. The activation in the growth plates is based on the juveline age of the pig.
By linking clinical symptoms, behavioral analyses (Open Field, Elevated Plus Maze, T-Maze, Morris Water Maze, CatWalk) and imaging procedures (positron emission tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography), detailed, holistic findings can be obtained and put into relation. These methodological procedures make it possible to combine targeted, longitudinal studies with a simultaneous reduction in the number of animals.
Video recording of the locomotion of a rat in the CatWalk. This behavioral analysis can be used to generate information about the movement sequence, gait pattern and speed, among other things.
Preclinical science in nuclear medicine has set itself the task of developing pioneering examination and treatment procedures in addition to basic scientific questions. Our research is carried out in accordance with strict ethical principles and international standards, taking into account radiation protection. We pay particular attention to compliance with the German Animal Welfare Act and active animal welfare in the sense of the 3Rs (Replace, Reduce, Refine) in order to be able to conduct responsible and innovative science. In particular, we offer our employees continuous participation in internal and external training courses. We are constantly striving to increase the efficiency of our projects through continuous quality management and improvements.
