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Molecular Imaging Labs or MI Labs and TU Delft have favorably combined microPET and microSPECT, the two forms of medical imaging techniques into one equipment called VECTor (Versatile Emission Computed Tomography) for cancer research.

SPECT and PET can however, be performed simultaneously to produce higher resolutions than traditional microSPECT and microPET. VECTor Versatile Emission Computed Tomography is the new equipment meant to be utilized in fundamental research of the functioning of cells and organs. It can show functional details smaller than half a millimetre.

PET or Positron Emission Tomography and SPECT or Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography are designed for cancer research and diagnosis apart from the other purposes. PET and SPECT are also commonly used to carry out elementary research into living cells and disease mechanisms or to develop better methods of diagnosis and treatment. The PET/SPECT apparatus offers extremely high resolution, reduces use of laboratory animals and also offers financial savings when carrying out research in this area. Previously, both types of equipment would have had to be bought separately and less information could be gained from each individual animal.The equipment that has now been developed at TU Delft and MI Labs is designed for fundamental research using experimental animal models.The U-SPECT/PET scanner is presently being utilized for research using mice. 

The future developments of U-SPECT is a part of the world wide agenda for greater efficiency in medical imaging technology, radiotherapy and tumour seekers. Beekman emphasises that it is important for hospitals and technicians to work together very closely. TU Delft and MILabs are taking action in this area by participating in Medical Delta. They are cooperating with Erasmus University, the University of Leiden and their two affiliated academic hospitals.

Prof. Freek Beekman, professor at TU Delft and CEO/CSO of MI Labs, previously was in charge of developing the U-SPECT, one of the two elements in the new combined apparatus. The U-SPECT (Ultra-high resolution Single Photon Emission Computed Tomographer) equipment is advanced and efficient than the normal SPECT apparatus or other scanning techniques. 'These scanners allow us to see how cells and organs function in unprecedented detail. There are already more than ten U-SPECTs around the globe, which can test new tracers and pharmaceuticals for cancer, cardiac problems and brain diseases,' says Beekman.

Source: Delft University of Technology