Michael F. Tweedle

Research Description:

My lab focuses on creation and translational research for new molecularly targeted pharmaceuticals that are visualized in vivo via any diagnostic imaging technologies: CT, MRI, Nuclear, Ultrasound or Light imaging. Synthetic, analytical, and radio-chemistry, and cell and small animal biology and micro imaging are practiced. The goals of most projects are targeted imaging agents that are closely enough biochemically associated with the therapy that the therapy can be patient personalized. Primary focus is on cancer with a special interest in breast and prostate cancers, particularly as targeted with peptides. Current projects include several that use small hormonal peptide targets like >> Gastrin Releasing Peptide and neuropeptide Y, et. al.; and >> intra-operative surgical guidance with optical imaging. Collaborations are welcome involving existing or new cancer targets. My lab operates within the department of radiology and is associated with the James CCCC and The Wright Center of Innovation (WCI) in Biomedical Imaging. Collaborative projects exist with Bioengineering, Chemistry, Pathology, Surgery (Surgical Oncology) and Veterinary Biosciences. Work is ongoing with The WCI hybrid PET/MRI imaging co-registered dual function imaging development. New imaging pharmaceuticals are being developed for tumor targeted MRI, radiotherapy of prostate and breast cancers, nuclear imaging in Interventional Radiology, and dual functioning PET/NIRF optical probes in breast, prostate and squamous cell cancers.