Applied Molecular Imaging Science
(Area of cooperation with Graduate School of Medicine)

Recently, analyses of interprotein interactions, intercellular interactions, and intertissue networks in living organisms (individual organisms) have become an important research theme. The application of the knowledge obtained through the basic research to clinical diagnosis and treatment of diseases is also an urgent task in modern medicine. We are carrying out research and development of in vivo imaging of molecules and cells and pathological analysis techniques that can serve as a bridge between the basic and clinical research. In particular, we are developing 1) an analysis technique and a diagnostic imaging technique using tracer molecules (molecular probe) as a base, which can enable the precise determination of disease condition and treatment efficacy at the molecular or cellular level and 2) an analysis technique and a diagnostic imaging technique through the analysis of in vivo pharmacokinetics by a radiotracer method, which will enable the analysis of treatment efficacy and the prediction of side effects. As explained, we aim to contribute to the clarification of pathological conditions, the development of new drugs, and the advancement of medical science through the research and development of in vivo molecule and cell imaging including positron emission tomography (PET).