Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Services Available

July 20, 2023

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a sophisticated nuclear imaging modality that affords researchers the ability to conduct both functional and molecular imaging on biological and biochemical processes in vivo. In functional imaging, biological parameters such as metabolic rate and perfusion that can be altered by disease or treatment are monitored. In molecular imaging, PET can be used to examine and quantify cellular events such as cell trafficking, receptor binding and gene expression.

Therefore, PET is a valuable tool to elucidate mechanisms associated with diseases and drug actions. In addition to PET, microPET is designed to image small animals. A great tool to facilitate preclinical studies and basic research, it can eliminate the need of sacrificing the animal by enabling noninvasive, longitudinal, and serial studies. Over the last decade, PET imaging has been increasingly used to support neuroscience drug discovery by providing direct measurement of the drug–target interaction in the brain.

OSI has gained health physics experience in PET isotope production as the RSO for a cyclotron facility and in assisting clients using PET isotopes for research. We are experienced in effluent monitoring systems and estimating exposures to members of the public from effluent releases.

OSI is also experienced in nuclear medicine licensing and radiation safety programs using PET isotopes for imaging.