Multimodality imaging, which combines the strengths of different imaging techniques, offers a comprehensive approach to studying complex biological processes. Combining CT (Computed Tomography) with optical molecular imaging provides a powerful toolset for researching inflammatory and immune diseases.
Inflammation Localization: CT can identify structural changes and areas of inflammation, such as tissue swelling and fluid accumulation. Optical imaging can then be used to visualize specific molecular markers of inflammation, such as cytokines, chemokines, and immune cell infiltration.
Temporal Dynamics: The combination allows for the monitoring of inflammation over time, providing insights into the progression and resolution of inflammatory responses.
Immune Cell Migration: Optical imaging can be used to label and track immune cells, such as T cells, macrophages, and neutrophils, in real-time. CT provides the anatomical framework to understand where these cells are migrating within the body.
Cellular Interactions: The multimodal approach can help visualize interactions between different immune cell types and their target tissues, providing insights into immune responses and mechanisms of immune regulation.
Autoimmune Pathways: Multimodality imaging can be used to study the complex pathways involved in autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis. CT provides detailed images of affected tissues, while optical imaging can visualize specific autoimmune markers and immune cell activity.
Therapeutic Monitoring: The approach can help monitor the effects of immunosuppressive and immunomodulatory therapies, providing insights into their mechanisms of action and efficacy.
Chronic Inflammation: Multimodality imaging can be used to study chronic inflammatory diseases. CT provides detailed images of affected tissues, while optical imaging can visualize ongoing inflammatory processes.
Fibrosis and Tissue Remodeling: The approach can help in understanding the processes of fibrosis and tissue remodeling that occur in chronic inflammation, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets.
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