Considerations When Setting Up a Preclinical In Vivo Imaging Laboratory

Considerations When Setting Up a Preclinical In Vivo Imaging Laboratory

12 Dec 2017

Considerations for outfitting a preclinical imaging laboratory depend partly on the specific imaging systems in the laboratory and anticipated workflow of studies that will be made. Additionally, some aspects of laboratory set-up are necessary to meet safety and regulatory requirements while others are intended to facilitate day-to-day laboratory productivity. This application note provides an introduction to all such considerations, highlighting aspects such as the general site requirements, system and software considerations, imaging accessory requirements, animal care solutions and training/personnel considerations for setting up single modality and multimodality preclinical imaging laboratories.

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Sample PreparationSample preparation can improve the quality and speed of separation techniques. Products to assist sample preparation include filtration equipment, evaporators, membranes and sieves.Data AnalysisData analysis hardware and software is available to make data processing straight-forward yet powerful. Data software can be used for math and stats, technical graphing and image analysis. In addition, software is available for specific data analysis of electrophoresis, densitometry, ELISA and DNA sequencing.Sample ManagementSample management systems include sample storage devices such as freezers and plate storers, sample environment enclosures and sample organization, retrieval and sorter systems. Useful system features include high-throughput, automation, robotic arms, automated liquid handling and associated database systems. Accessories in sample management include barcode scanners, heat sealers and tubes.In Vivo Imaging Systems<i>In vivo</i> imaging systems, including pre-clinical imaging systems and medical imaging systems are used to non-invasively visualize and capture images of live animals and plants. Monitor the natural processes or diseases of your subjects using small-animal pre-clinical imaging systems, including single photon positron emission tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), computed tomography (micro-CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray radiography, ultrasound, fluorescence and bioluminescence imagers. Multimodal systems and software solutions are also available for correlative analysis of organ, tissue, cell, or molecular-level processes. Find the best in vivo imaging products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Clinical ChemistryBiochemistry (or clinical chemistry) involves the analysis of bodily fluids using chemical tests. Techniques used include HPLC, chromatography, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, immunochemical, electrophoresis, turbidometric / spectrophotometric assay, MRI and ISE analysis. Tests are often carried out on plasma or serum but urine (urinalysis) and fecal specimens are also processed.Animal ModelsThe use of non-human animals in experiments or behavorial observations. The research is conducted inside universities, medical schools, pharmaceutical companies, farms, defence establishments, and commercial facilities that provide animal-testing services to industry. It includes pure research such as genetics, developmental biology, behavioral studies, as well as applied research such as pharmaceutical testing in pre-clinical, before human, studies. RegulatoryPharmaceutical regulations impact on all areas of drug development, manufacture and control and supply. Services are provided from the early stages of drug development and clinical trials through to dossier submission, approval and marketing. Regulatory also includes submission of analytical studies from the pharmaceutical product and safety. Laboratory ManagementLaboratory management involves overseeing the operations of a lab, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, optimizing workflows, and maintaining equipment. Efficient lab management is key to ensuring accurate results and minimizing downtime. Technologies like laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and automated lab equipment are helping labs streamline operations. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best laboratory management tools, compare products, read reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.ImagingImaging techniques are essential for obtaining visual representations of samples to understand structures, processes, and function in biological, chemical, and physical research. These tools range from traditional light microscopy to advanced imaging modalities like MRI and electron microscopy, providing researchers with valuable data for diagnostics, drug discovery, and material analysis. Explore imaging solutions in our peer-reviewed product directory to compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Small Animal ImagingSmall animal imaging is the visualization of living animals, most commonly mice and rats, for research purposes. This non-invasive technique is vital for long-term studies into drugs effects, as well as small animal anatomy and physiology.Laboratory SafetyLaboratory safety is essential to the effective operation of all laboratories and is required to minimize the risk of harm during experiments. Guidelines, regulations, and equipment should be available in all laboratories to ensure that the working environment is safe and secure.Live Cell ImagingLive cell imaging is the study of living cells using microscopes and high-content imaging systems. This technique provides in-depth insight into fast and complex biological processes, by allowing dynamic imaging of living cells instead of acquiring an individual image at a single point in time.Molecular DiagnosticsMolecular diagnostics use an individual’s genetic code and gene expression to diagnose and monitor diseases. The technique is used increasingly in the field of infectious diseases and oncology, as well as areas such as coagulation, HLA typing and pharmacogenomics. Molecular diagnostics plays a pivotal role in personalized medicine.Digital ImagingDigital imaging is a technique that captures images of biological and chemical samples in high resolution, often using advanced cameras and sensors. This technology is crucial in microscopy, diagnostics, and quality control. Explore digital imaging systems in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.
Considerations When Setting Up a Preclinical In Vivo Imaging Laboratory