1. Research on high spatial resolution and high sensitivity preclinical PET imaging technology.

Preclinical PET holds significant value as a molecular imaging tool. Mice, being the most commonly used experimental animal model (constituting over 90% of cases), have a volume approximately 3000 times smaller than humans. Current preclinical PET imaging cannot yet achieve the image details equivalent to what can be obtained in human PET imaging. Simultaneously, improving sensitivity and spatial resolution poses a significant need and challenge in small animal PET imaging, requiring precise detection of depth of interaction (DOI) and Compton scatter between crystals in high-thickness (high detection efficiency) detectors.

Our research group has proposed a novel DOI detector design based on a dual-layer, single-end readout structure using LYSO and BGO crystals. This design employs deep learning methods for accurate DOI decoding of the detector and utilizes the scintillation light characteristics of crystals and the multi-layer structure of the detector to identify inter-crystal scatter events precisely. Based on this detector technology, we have designed a miniaturized system with high sensitivity (>20%, 2-4 times the advanced level in the field) and high spatial resolution (<1mm).

Our team has assembled a complete small animal PET system based on this detector design, surpassing the existing sensitivity and resolution levels in preclinical PET. This breakthrough has the potential to expand the applications of molecular imaging technology in life science research.

2. Research on high-resolution and high-sensitivity imaging technology dedicated to human brain PET.

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a molecular imaging device with significant application value. Brain PET imaging serves as a powerful tool for the research and diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases, brain tumors, cerebrovascular diseases, schizophrenia, depression, and other related conditions. In comparison to whole-body PET, high-performance PET devices specialized for the human brain offer higher sensitivity and spatial resolution. These devices can reveal finer structures within the brain and detect early-stage abnormalities, providing crucial insights for studying brain mechanisms and the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

Given the significant value of brain PET, the development of high-performance brain PET has become a forefront direction in current global technological advancements. Our team has conducted research and development on a brain-specific PET detector design with high detection efficiency, time-of-flight (TOF) resolution, and spatial resolution. We plan to develop a prototype of a brain-specific PET system based on this detector design and related technologies. Our work holds great significance for studying brain mechanisms and disease diagnosis and treatment. It also has the potential to contribute to the development of high-end medical imaging equipment in China with independent intellectual property rights.