The Future of Medical Imaging: From Radiotracers to AI-Enhanced PET Scans

In this episode of the Research Forward podcast, host David Mayo interviews Professor Adriana Tavares, a leading expert in translational molecular imaging and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. Professor Tavares shares her extensive background in nuclear medicine, biomedical engineering, and radiotracer development, highlighting her journey from her academic beginnings to her current role at the University of Edinburgh.

The conversation delves into the intricacies of PET imaging, discussing its advantages over other imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans. Professor Tavares explains how PET imaging can detect diseases at very early stages by examining the function of organs and cells, rather than just their structure. They explore the development of new radiotracers, such as LW223, which has significant implications for diagnosing and treating diseases where inflammation plays a key role.

Additionally, they discuss the challenges of quantifying PET data and the potential of artificial intelligence to enhance image analysis. The episode also touches on the ethical considerations and advancements in reducing animal use in research through technologies like body-on-chip systems. Professor Tavares emphasizes the importance of mentorship and collaboration in advancing the field of PET imaging, offering valuable insights into the future of this transformative technology.