WEBINAR: How High Frequency Ultrasound Imaging is Supporting Preclinical Research Applications

This free webinar hosted by Scintica Instrumentation introduced participants to some of the basics of high frequency ultrasound imaging and reviewed the most common preclinical research applications for this exciting technology.

Our presenter, Ms. Tonya Coulthard, discussed the basic principles of ultrasound imaging, presented sample images from various organs and tissues as a way of surveying common research applications, and introduced a few novel techniques that will be of interest to many researchers.  Throughout the webinar, technical information, product specifications and sample images where shown from the Prospect T1 compact, high-frequency, preclinical ultrasound imaging system.

Ultrasound imaging is a non-invasive imaging technique using sound waves to produce images of a variety of internal structures. Clinically, ultrasound is used routinely as a diagnostic tool in many different areas such as: to visualize and quantify cardiovascular function; to confirm, monitor, and assess pregnancy and fetal development; to detect and assess tumor location and size, etc. Preclinical ultrasound applications are similar, however, the technical requirements are quite demanding given the need to image structures in small laboratory animals such as mice and rats.  Preclinical ultrasound systems require high-frequency sound waves that provide imaging resolutions down to 30µm.

This free webinar hosted by Scintica Instrumentation introduced participants to some of the basic principles of ultrasound imaging.  We provided an overview of imaging modes and measurement techniques which allow users to visualize and measure a number of anatomical targets in 2D and 3D, as well as those modes which allow for the detection and quantification of movement of blood through the heart and surrounding vasculature. More advanced techniques such as contrast imaging, shear wave elastography, image guided injection, and sonoporation will also be touched upon.

Throughout this webinar, examples were provided from the Prospect T1 system manufactured by S-Sharp. This system is the world’s first tablet based compact, high-frequency, ultrasound system specifically designed for preclinical imaging of small animals such as mice and rats. The Prospect T1 is a cost-effective alternative to other high-frequency ultrasound systems on the market, providing individual researchers the ability to acquire high resolution images within their own labs rather than having to rely on an institution’s core imaging facility.

Topics discussed in this webinar included:

  • Basics of ultrasound imaging
  • Overview of the Prospect T1 system
  • Key research applications
    • Cardiovascular Research
    • Cancer Biology
    • Abdominal & Anatomical Imaging
    • Developmental Biology
    • Ophthalmology
    • Other Animal Models

If you want more information on our ultrasound option visit our Prospect T1 page


About the Speaker (s)

Tonya Coulthard, MSc

Manager, Imaging Division

Tonya Coulthard holds an MSc from the University of British Columbia in Experimental Medicine. Throughout her academic training she focused on a variety of diseases ranging from prion to chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. In her professional career she has worked with several imaging and medical device companies; in these roles she has interacted with researchers around the world covering a very diverse range of research applications. In her present role at Scintica Instrumentation Tonya leads the team of product managers and applications specialists in supporting our customers in understanding the products offered and how these instruments help to meet their research needs.