Objectives
- Bridge fundamental discoveries and clinical applications (bench-to-bedside).
- Develop and evaluate novel radiopharmaceuticals and imaging biomarkers.
- Advance translational oncology, neuroimaging, and quantitative imaging methods.
- Enable preclinical studies and robust lab capabilities supporting NuMeRI divisions.
- Foster collaborations with academia and industry to accelerate patient impact.
About Our BTR Laboratory
The Basic & Translational Research (BTR) Laboratory at NuMeRI is dedicated to bridging the gap between fundamental scientific discoveries and clinical applications in nuclear medicine. Our laboratory serves as a vital link in the translational research chain, accelerating the journey from "bench to bedside" for novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
At the BTR Laboratory, we conduct cutting-edge research on molecular and cellular mechanisms, develop new radiopharmaceuticals, and explore innovative approaches for diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates closely with other NuMeRI divisions and external partners to translate scientific discoveries into tangible solutions that improve patient care.
Radiopharmaceutical Development
Our team works on developing novel radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic applications. We focus on designing targeted molecular probes that can selectively bind to specific biological targets, enabling precise diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
- Development of novel PET and SPECT tracers for cancer and neurological disorders
- Design and synthesis of theranostic radiopharmaceuticals
- Optimization of radiolabeling techniques for improved efficiency and stability
- Preclinical evaluation of novel radiopharmaceuticals in cellular and animal models
Molecular Imaging Biomarkers
We focus on identifying and validating novel biomarkers for molecular imaging, with applications in cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disorders, and inflammatory conditions. Our research aims to develop specific imaging probes that can visualize disease-specific molecular targets.
- Identification and validation of novel molecular targets for imaging
- Development of imaging biomarkers for early disease detection
- Quantitative imaging approaches for monitoring treatment response
- Correlation of imaging biomarkers with clinical outcomes
Translational Oncology
Our translational oncology research focuses on developing novel approaches for cancer diagnosis, staging, and treatment monitoring using nuclear medicine techniques. We work closely with clinical researchers to accelerate the translation of promising laboratory findings into clinical applications.
- Development of targeted radiopharmaceuticals for specific cancer types
- Investigation of tumor microenvironment using molecular imaging
- Radionuclide therapy approaches for cancer treatment
- Predictive and prognostic biomarkers for personalized cancer treatment
Neuroimaging Research
Our neuroimaging research focuses on developing novel approaches to study brain function, neuroinflammation, and neurodegenerative processes. We aim to develop new tracers and imaging protocols that can provide insights into brain disorders and help monitor disease progression and treatment response.
- Development of novel tracers for neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration
- Investigation of neurotransmitter systems using PET imaging
- Study of blood-brain barrier integrity in various neurological conditions
- Development of imaging biomarkers for early diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases
Laboratory Equipment & Capabilities
Our laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for molecular biology, cell culture, radiochemistry, and preclinical imaging studies.
- Cell culture facilities for in vitro studies
- Molecular biology equipment for gene expression analysis and protein studies
- Automated radiosynthesis modules for radiopharmaceutical production
- Analytical equipment for quality control of radiopharmaceuticals
- Small animal imaging systems for preclinical evaluation
- Tissue processing and histology facilities
- Computational resources for image analysis and modeling
Our Collaborations
We actively collaborate with national and international academic institutions, research organizations, and industry partners to advance translational research in nuclear medicine.
Academic Partnerships
Collaborative research projects with leading universities and academic medical centers in South Africa and worldwide.
Industry Collaborations
Partnerships with pharmaceutical and biotech companies for development and clinical translation of novel radiopharmaceuticals.
Research Networks
Participation in national and international research networks focused on molecular imaging and nuclear medicine applications.
Clinical Collaborations
Close collaboration with clinical departments for translational studies and early-phase clinical trials of new imaging approaches.
Recent Publications
Development and Preclinical Evaluation of a Novel 18F-Labeled PSMA-Targeted Radiopharmaceutical for Prostate Cancer Imaging
Ndlovu B, Mkhize M, Johnson T, et al. Journal of Nuclear Medicine. 2024;35(3):521-531.
Targeting Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's Disease: Development and Characterization of a Novel TSPO-Targeted PET Tracer
Naidoo S, Chen R, Mabena N, et al. Molecular Imaging and Biology. 2023;25(4):675-688.
Radiopharmaceutical Approaches for Imaging Tumor Hypoxia: Current Status and Future Directions
Mabena N, Johnson T, Ndlovu B, et al. European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. 2023;50(8):2412-2425.