Preclinical MRI Services
Study design, imaging acquisition, animal support and data-analysis
services for preclinical magnetic resonance research.
MRI System
Bruker BioSpin 4.7T
Species
Mouse, rat and rabbit
Modalities
MRI, MRS and MRE
Consultation
Required before scheduling
Animal Support
Anesthesia and monitoring
Data Analysis
Available upon request
Not sure whether MRI is the right imaging method?
The MRI specialist will work with investigators to determine whether
MRI, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, magnetic resonance elastography
or another imaging method is best suited to address the proposed
scientific question.
Our Services
Support is available throughout the study process, from the initial
scientific question through image acquisition and optional analysis.
✓
Study Design Consultation
Review research aims, determine whether MRI is appropriate and
identify the imaging approach needed to answer the scientific question.
⌁
Protocol Development
Develop scan parameters, imaging sequences, timing, animal numbers
and study-specific procedures.
◉
MRI Acquisition
MRI technician support for instrument operation, image acquisition
and implementation of the approved scanning protocol.
+
Animal Handling and Anesthesia
Veterinary technician support for positioning, anesthesia,
monitoring and recovery associated with MRI procedures.
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Image Processing
Image reconstruction, organization and preparation of imaging data
for investigator review and downstream analysis.
⌁
Data Analysis
Optional specialized analysis services may be arranged according to
the scientific aims and complexity of the imaging dataset.
Typical Study Workflow
Initial Inquiry
Contact the MRI team with the research question.
Consultation
Discuss aims, species, endpoints and imaging options.
Study Design
Develop the scanning and animal-support plan.
Cost Estimate
Prepare an estimate based on expected services.
IACUC Review
Confirm that all procedures are approved.
Scheduling
Coordinate animal housing and imaging dates.
MRI Acquisition
Perform imaging according to the approved protocol.
Data Delivery
Provide images and optional analysis services.
Imaging Capabilities
Imaging protocols are selected and customized according to the
scientific aims of each study.
Available Magnetic Resonance Services
- High-resolution anatomical MRI
- Magnetic resonance spectroscopy
- Magnetic resonance elastography
- Longitudinal and repeated imaging studies
- Contrast-enhanced imaging when appropriate
- Study-specific sequence and protocol development
Potential Imaging Sequences
- T1-weighted imaging
- T2-weighted imaging
- T2*-weighted imaging
- Diffusion-weighted imaging
- Multi-planar image acquisition
- Thin-slice, high-resolution imaging where technically feasible
Example Research Applications
MRI may support a broad range of biomedical and translational research
projects. Suitability depends on the scientific question and required
imaging endpoint.
Brain and neurologic imaging
Tumor and cancer models
Stroke and vascular research
Traumatic brain injury
Musculoskeletal imaging
Organ and soft-tissue imaging
Longitudinal disease studies
Therapeutic response assessment
Services and Rates
| Service
|
Rate
|
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Initial Planning
Research and Scanning Protocol Design
Consultation with the MRI specialist to review research aims,
identify an appropriate imaging method, estimate scan time and
discuss study design and analysis needs.
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$175/hour
|
|
Required
MRI Technician
Operates the instrument and acquires MRI images. One animal is
scanned at a time.
|
$50/hour
|
|
Required Animal Support
Veterinary Technician
Provides anesthesia support, animal handling, positioning,
monitoring and recovery assistance.
|
$41.87/hour
|
|
When Required
Veterinarian
Veterinarian involvement may be requested by the investigator
or required by the approved IACUC protocol.
|
$103.76/hour
|
|
Per Scan
Isoflurane Anesthesia
Isoflurane anesthesia for imaging procedures requiring an
anesthetized animal.
|
$136.94/scan
Specialized supplies may be billed separately.
|
|
Billed as Used
Supplies
Consumables and study-specific materials are charged according
to actual cost.
|
Cost + 26%
Administrative fee
|
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Optional
Data Analysis
Specialized analysis may be provided by Dr. Wansapura and the
University of Texas Southwestern team.
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$272/hour
|
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Variable
Animal Housing Per Diems
Housing charges depend on species, housing type and length of stay.
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Current rate
Contact DCM for pricing
|
Animal Housing and Study Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I begin planning an MRI study?
Contact the MRI team to request an initial consultation. The
research aims, species, imaging endpoints, scan time, staffing and
expected costs will be reviewed before scheduling.
Is an initial consultation required?
Yes. The consultation is used to determine whether MRI is
appropriate and to develop a realistic imaging protocol and cost
estimate.
How long does each MRI scan take?
Scan duration varies according to the species, anatomical area,
imaging sequences and scientific endpoints. An estimated scan time
will be provided during protocol development.
Can animals undergo repeated imaging?
Longitudinal and repeated imaging may be possible when supported by
the study design and approved IACUC protocol.
Is data analysis included with the MRI scan?
Image acquisition and specialized analysis are separate services.
Investigators may perform their own analysis or request optional
analysis support.
How is the total project cost determined?
Total cost depends on consultation time, scan duration, animal
numbers, technician support, anesthesia, housing, supplies and any
requested data analysis.
Rates, capabilities and service availability are subject to change.
Investigators should request a current study estimate before finalizing a
project budget.