Human and Animal Imaging Core

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Abstract The Human and Animal Imaging Core (HAIC) provides access to state-of-the-art in vivo whole brain imaging technologies to DC-IDDRC investigators in order to support, facilitate, and enhance IDD-targeted research in humans and in animal models. To achieve the Core’s aims we have established advanced imaging facilities at three collaborating DC-IDDRC institutions - Howard University (HU), Georgetown University (GU), and Children’s National Hospital (CNH) - that provide structural and functional imaging of animal models and human populations. The HAIC provides access to a wide array of imaging tools to investigate mechanisms of disease, establish biomarkers, examine effects of disease, and monitor outcomes of interventions. We have made significant institutional investments in 3T human MRI scanners at CNH, and GU that provide researchers with state-of-the-art imaging instrumentation and expand our imaging capacity in neonates and ill children. Furthermore, we have also invested in MRI scanner/software upgrades and added PET, SPECT, and CT to the preclinical animal imaging facilities at HU. HAIC personnel provide technical expertise in imaging strategy design, essential imaging services, acquisition and innovative imaging sequences and analysis methods across all sites and institutions. Core faculty and staff also help educate, train, and support investigators in the use of advanced neuroimaging methods, applications, and analysis software as well as foster innovation. The HAIC works synergistically, and fosters collaborations, with other DC-IDDRC cores including the Neurobehavioral Evaluation, the Cell and Tissue Microscopy Core, the Genomics and Bioinformatics Core, and Clinical Translational Cores, and supports the P50 Research Project. Our administrative structure provides the quality control necessary for the integrity of a smoothly functioning core to achieve the DC-IDDRC mission.