The Imaging and Technology research theme draws on the expertise of a strong team of experienced technology academics. Our technologies span the range of biological length scales from single molecules, through organelles and single cells to tissues, organs and whole animals. We can capture structural and dynamic information of molecules within living cells and resolve cellular structures at the nanoscale. In addition to powerful in vitro imaging technologies, we develop and use a range of in vivo modalities that can map the electrical signals within the heart, image microcirculatory perturbations in various organs including in the beating heart and image vascular and non-vascular events with greater tissue depth.
We are focussed on driving the development of innovative imaging solutions to advance cardiovascular research. Our world leading researchers apply these novel techniques to address some of the key research questions in cardiovascular science, and have wide-ranging applications for other biomedical areas. These include investigating actin dynamics, receptor signalling and proteins regulating platelet function, imaging coronary microvessels in real-time in the context of myocardial infarction and mapping the disturbed electrical signals contributing to atrial fibrillation.
Find out how ICVS researchers are shaping the future of cardiovascular research using these state-of-the-art technologies:
Our theme also works closely with the Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), a unique collaboration between the Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham. It is aimed at developing novel methods for visualising single membrane proteins, as well as identifying new approaches for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and cancer angiogenesis. COMPARE provides a wide network of imaging scientists and access to additional methodologies and technologies.
To help shape the next generation of imaging researchers, members of our theme are playing key roles, including co-director, module leads and in providing teaching and research projects, in the new MSc in Quantitative Bioimaging programme.