Kinetic Modeling
key researchers (alphabetical order)
Mag.in Dr.in Barbara Geist
Tel.: +43 (0)1 40400 - 57640
E-Mail:barbara.geist@meduniwien.ac.at
Lalith Kumar Shiyam Sundar, MSc
Tel.: +43 (0)1 40400 - 57640
E-Mail:lalith.shiyamsundar@meduniwien.ac.at
Dr.in Chrysoula Vraka, MSc
Tel.: +43 (0)1 40400 - 57640
E-Mail:chrysoula.vraka@meduniwien.ac.at
Functional imaging (e.g. PET: Positron Emission Tomography) is a non-invasive method allowing to study and understand biochemical processes in a living organism. Therefore, various radio- labeled bio-molecules, so-called tracers, are used, which are specifically produced and chosen for different bio-chemical, physiological and pharmacological processes. In order to quantify these pharmacological characteristics, a mathematical description is needed, usually in form of a kinetic model which reproduces the behavior of the tracer preferably completely but also as simple as possible. Kinetic models are built with the information obtained by a dynamic scan, i.e. from the tracer’s behavior over time in a certain three dimensional region of the living organism.
On basis of these models as well as with suitable scan protocols and reconstruction algorithms, quantitative biological images can be produced.
The challenges and scientific questions of kinetic modeling are addressed by a multidisciplinary team consisting of physicists, computer scientists and radio pharmacists as well as in cooperation with the QIMP group of the Medical University of Vienna. New protocols, models and correction mechanisms are developed, adjusted to the individual problems of tracers and organs. The findings not only support clinical routine. With regard to future applications such as four-dimensional whole-body imaging techniques, a comprehensive and multidisciplinary knowledge is needed in order to solve associated problems with input functions or metabolisms of the tracers.
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