Development of an experimental setup for the integration of multi-modality imaging and photon/proton irradiation for preclinical cancer research with small animals

In this abstract, we present an experimental setup that allows for multi-modal, cross-platform imaging of small animals as well as image-guided proton- and photon irradiation under laboratory conditions.
The setup consists of two units: A primary bedding unit which holds the animal and which is equipped with a breathing mask for inhalation anesthesia, an inlet for warm air and a breathing sensor. The primary unit was designed to meet the demands of the various imaging (magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, computed tomography, proton radiography,) and treatment modalities (photon- and proton irradiation). The bedding unit can be mounted inside a container, which is designed to maintain pathogen-free conditions outside designated animal laboratory facilities.
The second, peripheral unit comprises a heating module, several sensors and read-out electronics to control and monitor temperature as well as vital signs. Moreover, it allows for remote emergency intervention (e.g. oxygen flush) during the animal’s anesthesia.
The setup has currently been tested for proton irradiation in an experimental area. A method was implemented to perform on-line position verification by proton radiography.
The presented setup features multiple advantages for combined, multi-modal treatment which is of special importance for the monitoring and treatment planning of experimental tumor models. In particular, orthotopic tumors which require accurate imaging – the modality of which can be chosen based upon tissue and treatment – and treatment planning. It satisfies the various modalities’ requirements, hence allowing for one combined workflow. Moreover, image analysis is strongly simplified as multi-modal images can be co-registered without sophisticated techniques.