Molecular imaging is a rapidly emerging research field and clinical discipline aimed at noninvasive, quantitative visualization of in vivo molecular processes occurring at cellular and subcellular levels. The molecular imaging techniques [Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), Computed Tomography (CT), optical (bioluminescence, fluorescence, Raman) imaging, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), contrast enhanced ultrasound, photoacoustic imaging] as well as multimodal imaging can improve the understanding of disease, early detection, therapy response monitoring, drug discovery, and drug development. The general interest of Molecular Imaging Probe Toolbox group focuses on the development of imaging toolbox to investigate the fundamental biological processes by using the molecular imaging probes (known or novel peptides, peptidominetics, antibodies, proteins, small molecules, and nanoparticles). We aim to combine the state-of-the-art imaging techniques as well as integrate our wealth of expertise in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, molecular modeling, materials science, and biochemistry in our research.

To date, many imaging probes are being investigated for visualizing and quantifying various molecular targets. However, the application of imaging probe is usually limited in single target which is hard to understand the whole biological process. We will develop a useful probe toolbox which integrates available or novel imaging probes to dramatically accelerate and expand the application of the imaging probes in preclinical research and clinical settings, and to explore the entirety of processes that happen in a biological system from a systemic view. The molecular targets of imaging probes include, but not limited to, metabolism, proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, lymphogenesis, hypoxia, and apoptosis.

In silico modeling is playing an increasing role as a powerful and useful tool in drug discovery and drug development by significantly saving time and cost. Currently the application of computer modeling techniques for developing imaging probe is under explored. We will use molecular modeling techniques to understand the functions of biological molecules or the mechanisms of chemical biological events at the molecular level; to discover and develop the imaging lead candidate (small molecules, peptides, and peptidominetics); and to guide the structure optimization of known or novel imaging agents.

Application of Multimodality Imaging

Staff