Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (NIBIB) awarded a $161,000 Project Grant (CFDA 93.286: Discovery and Applied Research for Technological Innovations to Improve Human Health) to the University of California, Davis, effective May 1, 2026, through April 30, 2028. This award supports research and development of an affordable dynamic total-body positron emission tomography (TB-PET) imaging system utilizing sparse detector architectures. The project delivers technological innovation through three specific research objectives: (1) demonstrating parametric imaging capabilities using sparse TB-PET configurations, (2) comparative analysis of image quality between sparse TB-PET and conventional PET scanners, and (3) optimization of reconstruction parameters and detector matrix configurations for high temporal resolution dynamic imaging applications.

The funded research combines spatial downsampling of the detector matrix from UC Davis's 2-meter EXPLORER TB-PET scanner with advanced reconstruction algorithms incorporating both classical and deep learning-based kernel methods to maintain image quality in high-noise, low-count imaging environments. The deliverables include a cost-effective TB-PET system architecture designed to reduce material and electronics costs while preserving full-body imaging coverage and quantitative accuracy for kinetic modeling and parametric imaging. Upon successful completion, this technology is expected to expand clinical and research access to dynamic TB-PET capabilities, enhance diagnostic workflows for cancer staging and early treatment response assessment, and advance biomedical imaging technology applicable to disease prevention, detection, diagnosis, and treatment.