Molecular Imaging Core
This core images animals and cells by several techniques including: MRI, ultrasound, bioluminescence, fluorescence, and PET. A cyclotron produces radioisotopes which the Radiochemistry Laboratory uses to make radioactive targeted ligands for non-invasive Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging. The Radiochemistry Laboratory synthesizes established radiotracers and assists development of novel imaging agents. The Molecular Imaging Core Lab has approximately 2000 ft2 in the Sheridan G. Snyder Translational Research Building and another 1000 ft2 in the nearby Medical Research (MR4) Building at UVA. At the Snyder Building are mini-cells for the production of PET labeled imaging substrates, and labs for organic and SPECT chemistry. We are able to label antibodies or peptides with radioactive or fluorescent imaging probes.