Image Fusion in Preclinical Applications

This book provides an accessible and comprehensive overview of the state of the art in multimodal, multiparametric preclinical imaging, covering all the modalities used in preclinical research. The role of different combinations of PET, CT, MR, optical, and optoacoustic imaging methods is examined and explained for a range of applications, from research in oncology, neurology, and cardiology to drug development. Examples of animal studies are highlighted in which multimodal imaging has been pivotal in delivering otherwise unobtainable information. Hardware and software image registration methods and animal-specific factors are also discussed. The readily understandable text is enhanced by numerous informative illustrations that help the reader to appreciate the similarities to, but also the differences from, clinical applications. Image Fusion in Preclinical Applications will be of interest to all who wish to learn more about the use of multimodal/multiparametric imaging as a tool for in vivo investigations in preclinical medical and pharmaceutical research.