Laboratory of Molecular Imaging (LMI)

Focus

The Laboratory of Molecular Imaging (LMI) employs radiomics in a non-invasive manner to investigate changing metabolic phenotypes across disease states. The lab's research portfolio spans melanoma, lymphoma, and metabolic modulation in cancer — reflecting a broad and growing commitment to understanding how disease alters cellular metabolism. A cornerstone of this work is the LMI's pioneering use of advanced MR imaging and spectroscopy protocols, which enable precise monitoring of dynamic metabolic changes during both disease progression and treatment response.

The figure portrays the diversity of programs at the Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, which now encompass research on melanoma, lymphoma, and metabolic modulation in pathological states. The Nath group employs radiomics in a non-invasive manner to query the changing metabolic phenotypes in disease states. Our group has been at the forefront of using advanced MR imaging and spectroscopy protocols. These methods enable the laboratory to effectively monitor the changing metabolomics in disease and treatment. To outline what we do, here is a schematic of melanoma, lymphoma, and a T-cell. We next employ therapeutic interventions both in vitro and in vivo. Typical intermediary metabolism is shown and how this is modified with pathological states. In addition, for both diagnostic and improved therapeutic efficacy, metabolism can be modified by agents like lonidamine that acidify and deenergize the system with specificity. Models are studied to develop analytical protocols preclinically that can eventually be translated to the clinic.

Leadership

Headshot of Kavindra Nath, PhDKavindra Nath, PhDDirector 

Laboratory details