The Translational Precision Imaging Facility (TPI), originally established in 2012 as the ACRF Centre for Translational Cancer Therapeutics and Imaging, is now supported by the National Imaging Facility. It offers cutting-edge technologies for non-invasive imaging in preclinical models. Functional imaging of live animals can be performed using PET, SPECT or IVIS systems, while CT and 3T MRI scanners provide detailed anatomical imaging.
Research Applications
Our facility enables non-invasive, longitudinal imaging to study disease progression, therapeutic response, and biological processes in preclinical models. Applications include:
- Oncology and tumour biology
- Neuroscience and receptor studies
- Immunology and inflammation
- Nephrology
- Pharmacokinetics
- Radiotracer development
- Gene therapy and genetic modification monitoring
Comprehensive Support
Expert staff at TPI provide researchers with tailored support, including:
- Study design consultation
- Assistance with animal ethics applications
- Animal anaesthesia and injections
- MR coils for imaging of animal head and body
- Imaging studies conducted alongside therapy schedules (e.g., targeted radiotherapy, chemotherapy, drug conjugates)
- Access to cyclotron, radiochemistry, irradiator (X-RAD320), and clinical trial infrastructure
- Data acquisition, reconstruction and analysis of static and dynamic image data
- Animal housing facilities, including radioactive and non-radioactive holding rooms
- Biodistribution studies
- Access to a veterinary haematology analyser
Contact
If you would like to discuss potential projects and access our platform technologies and services, please contact:
Ingrid Burvenich
NIF Facility Fellow, Platform Lead
P +61 3 9496 5762
Translational Precision Imaging Facility
Level 5, 145 Studley Road
ONJCRI
Heidelberg, VIC, 2084
Additional Capabilities
In addition to imaging, the Centre benefits from on-site radiochemistry facilities supporting the development of novel PET and SPECT imaging probes and radiopharmaceuticals for preclinical and clinical research. Our integration with human imaging scanners (PET/CT, SPECT/CT, MRI, CT) facilitates seamless translation from bench to bedside.
Whether you’re investigating disease mechanisms, evaluating new therapies, or developing imaging probes, our team is here to help advance your research. Contact us to discuss how imaging can enhance your study.
Our Equipment
Combines high-performance PET with a 3T MRI system for simultaneous functional and anatomical imaging. Achieves submillimetre resolution with dual-mouse imaging capability for increased PET throughput.
- Features a heated animal bed and allows for monitoring of heart rate and breathing.
Integrates SPECT with CT imaging, providing submillimetre resolution and exceptional quantification accuracy for functional and anatomical imaging in small animals.
- Features a heated animal bed and allows for monitoring of heart rate and breathing.
A versatile system combining 2D optical and 3D optical tomography in one platform for fluorescence and bioluminescence imaging. Offers high-throughput (up to 5 mice) or high-resolution imaging (down to 20 microns) with 28 high-efficiency filters spanning 430–850 nm for multiplexed imaging of bioluminescent and fluorescent reporters.
From cells to small animals, the X-RAD320 delivers a precise radiation dose to specimens.
Key Features:
- Highest throughput for Whole Body Irradiation
- Planetary turntable and motorised shelf allows up to 33 mice per cycle
- Full screen, real-time specimen viewing
- Integrated filter recognition & daily automated dose QA
- Replacement of choice for 137 Cesium gamma irradiators