The TBIR manages a VisualSonics Vevo 3100 along with data management and analysis software. This small-animal ultrasound device provides axial resolution down to 30 microns. The system can be used to measure a variety of cancer-related metrics such as tumor growth, tumor blood flow and volume, angiogenesis, and molecular imaging with microbubble contrast agents. Cardiovascular imaging and measurement of cardiac function are two other popular applications. The technology also applies to other disciplines including neurosciences, embryology, and ophthalmology. Specialized human studies are also possible with institutional review board approval.

Researchers at the University have used Vevo systems on a number of projects in diverse areas, from investigating the effects of environmental contaminants such as trichloroethylene and arsenic to the imaging of adipose tissues. The TBIR is currently working with the Treatment, Research, and Education of Adipose Tissue (TREAT) Program in the UA Department of Medicine to image lipedema and other subcutaneous adipose tissue disorders. The resource is also collaborating in a project to measure tumor growth and angiogenesis using microbubbles as an ultrasound contrast agent. The TBIR is also collaborating on a longitudinal study of etiology and treatment of chronic heart failure after myocardial infarction, ex-vivo studies of cardiac development in chicken embryos, and studies tracking induced development of tumors in the liver.

The TBIR manages a 7T Bruker Biospec research MRI scanner. Users can perform physiological and functional imaging of soft tissue anatomy, tumor growth, angiogenesis, cellularity, inflammation, myelination, myocardial function, early therapeutic effects, extracellular pH, redox state, and other applications. 3D anatomical imaging of soft tissues is performed at up to 300 μm resolution. The facility has technical support to aid in surgical procedures and anesthesia, protocol modifications and compliance, safety training, and consultations.

A Cubresa NuPET MRI compatible PET insert enables evaluation of tumor therapy response through diffusion-weighted MRI with PET tracers specific for tumor proliferation. The PET insert can also improve tumor detection through diffusion-weighted and T2-weighted MRI with PET tracers for specific biomarkers as well as evaluate drug delivery and perfusion for molecular theranostics assessments.

The TBIR is dedicated to supporting MRI research within the University community and for industry partners in pharmaceuticals, health care, veterinary care, and behavioral sciences. The TBIR houses a 3 Tesla Siemens Skyra VE11 that is able to support work that addresses a wide range of research questions, including questions related to arthritis, traumatic brain injuries, PTSD, cancer treatment efficacy, depression, kidney transplant viability, CPR, Alzheimer’s, complex grief, and healthy aging.