Overview
The description genome has opened medical research to the development of new molecular therapies, targeted to correct specific pathologies.  Gene expression, a powerful tool for the medicine of the future, can be studied by modern molecular imaging techniques, e.g., using MRI, PET, SPECT, and optical methods.  In addition, cellular imaging shows a major potential towards understanding and guiding novel cell repair strategies based on stem cells.  Ultrasound contrast agents may be used as drug delivery devices.  These and other emerging subjects in imaging, recently summarized as "molecular imaging," are fast becoming a hot topic in imaging research.  This trend was clearly shown at recent meetings, e.g., the Glasgow and Honolulu meetings of the ISMRM and dedicated molecular imaging conferences.  The purpose of this workshop is to explore the potential of multi-modality molecular and cellular imaging and their application in diagnostics and therapy.

Educational Objectives:
Upon completion of this workshop, participants should be able to:
  • Appraise the research fields of molecular and cellular imaging and their (potential) impact in diagnosis and therapy of the future;
  • Describe several new technologies in molecular and cellular imaging targeted to specific biological pathways;
  • Explain the role of the major imaging modalities in cellular and molecular imaging;
  • Describe the (potential) role of molecular imaging in advanced therapies, notably gene therapy;
  • Describe the (potential) role of cellular imaging in cell repair therapy, notably via stem cells;
  • Summarize the basic principles of imaging of key biological processes such as angiogenesis, apoptosis, inflammation.
Audience Description:
This workshop is designed for radiologists; physicians working in the field of cancer, (neuro) degenerative diseases and inflammation; scientists and engineers (physics, chemists, biologists) working in the field of imaging, contrast agents, cellular targeting and, gene therapy; industry specialists working in imaging, pharmacology, contrast agents; regulatory experts in the field of medical imaging; and medical grant agencies.  Those with an interest in stem cells, gene therapy or specific contrast agent will find it useful.