Probes & Biosensors
From BioImagingUKWiki
Contents |
Topics
Tools for new labelling technologies, multi-modality imaging, label free...
Members
Tony Gee, Alessandro Esposito, Gail McConnell, Erik Arstad, Nick Long, Ramon Vilar, Tony Ng, Tom Eykyn
Activities
Background
The use of a wide array of imaging modalities has been invaluable for the advancement of the understanding of normo- and pathophysiology in animals, plants and humans both in vivo and in vitro. Many of these modalities rely on specific imaging probes to report on the biological status or obtain information about a particular bio-construct (eg. protein, receptor, enzyme) or bio-mechanism of interest. The detection of these molecules in the bio-mileu under investigation is based on target molecules being ‘tagged’ by imaging modality-dependent physicochemical ‘handles’ eg radioisotopes (PET/SPECT), chromophores/fluorophores (optical/fluorescence imaging), magnetically susceptible nuclei (NMR) or density (X-ray CT contrast agents).
Recent developments in the genomics, metabanomics and proteomics has led to the discovery of a plethora of new receptors enzymes, proteins which may play important, but as yet, unknown biological roles in heath and disease. However, at present there is a lack of corresponding imaging probes available to capitalise on these rapid advances. In order to align these imaging modalities with these recent advances a concerted effort will be required to developing the next generation of appropriate imaging biomarkers to ensure a productive future for biochemistry-related discovery in conjunction with these bioimaging platforms.
Recommendations
It is recommended that a network of experts in the area of imaging probe development be assembled to establish a critical mass of expertise with the aim to stimulate and create cross-laboratory national and European training / research programmes within this area (within and between modalities).
Membership, Expertise and Interests
Dr. Erik Arstad Dept Chemistry, University College, London
Prof. Nick Long Dept Chemistry, Imperial College, London
Prof. Antony Gee Division of Imaging Sciences and Bioengineering, King’s College London
Prof Tony Ng Randall Division of Cell and Molecular Biophysics, King’s College London
Prof Phil Blower Division of Imaging Sciences and Bioengineering, King’s College London
Peergroup Communication Resources
PET Chemistry Community (via LinkedIn)
Meetings
- Jan 2011 Working Group Meeting Minutes
