An optimized trimodality (PET/MR/EEG) clinical imaging tool for schizophrenia.

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In the frame of the European FP7-Health program, the project TRIMAGE* has been selected. The aim of the project is to design an optimized and a cost-effective trimodality imaging instrument (brain PET/MR/EEG scanner) for early diagnosis, monitoring and follow-up of schizophrenia disorders. RS2D is the main industrial partner of the project, in charge of the development and construction of the MR part.

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The aim of the project is to integrate three well-known imaging modalities in their current clinical applications and to build a new dedicated instrument. In combination with biomarkers from high-end European research laboratories, the new tri-modal PET / MR / EEG scanner will be a fully integrated solution for the early diagnosis of schizophrenia.
The consortium will develop and build a PET imaging system with better performance than current clinical imaging: spatial resolution of 2 mm and high sensitivity (14%). The PET ring will be based on the silicon photomultipliers technology in order to be compatible with the magnetic field and will be as compact as possible.
The MRI will be based on an ultra-compact superconducting magnet, without the need of cryogenic fluids, and using the latest technology in this field. The electronics developed by RS2D will especially perform rapid imaging, localized spectroscopy and diffusion weighted imaging.
The PET and the MR will be fully integrated in the same compact enclosure and will also integrate the electroencephalography system (EEG). This new system will be optimized for human brain studies, with improved patient comfort and reduced overall cost compared to existing systems.

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Cryogen free superconducting magnet 1.2 m long, weighing only 1.5 tons: (1) Magnet; (2) Gradient coils; (3) RF coil; (4) Technical room, e.g. Gradient Amplifier, Electronics, RF Amplifier

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List of the other members of the project:

  1. Dpt of Physics, University of Pisa, Italy
  2. TRI of Athens, Greece
  3. Forschungszentrum Juelich, Germany
  4. RWTH, Aachen, Germany
  5. TUM, Munich, Germany
  6. University of Zurich, Switzerland
  7. AdvanSiD, Italy
  8. INFN, Torino, Italy
  9. WeeROC, France

*FP7-Health.2013.221-2-Agreement n°602621