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Updated: Jul 10, 2026

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Continuous Blood Sampling in Small Animal Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Enables the Measurement of the Arterial Input Function
Published on: August 8, 2019
Hybrid image and blood sampling input function for quantification of small animal dynamic PET data
Kooresh I Shoghi1, Michael J Welch
1Division of Radiological Sciences, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA. shoghik@wustl.edu
Nuclear Medicine and Biology
|November 14, 2007
Summary
The hybrid image and blood sampling (HIBS) method accurately derives microPET input functions. HIBS offers a reliable alternative to traditional blood-sampled plasma time-activity curves (bsPTAC) for improved data quantification in mice.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Medicine
- Pharmacokinetics
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Accurate input function derivation is crucial for quantitative microPET imaging.
- Traditional blood sampling methods (bsPTAC) have limitations in capturing dynamic physiological processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and validate a hybrid image and blood sampling (HIBS) method for microPET data input function quantification in mice.
- To compare the performance of HIBS against traditional bsPTAC.
Main Methods:
- HIBS algorithm combines image-derived peak data (corrected for recovery) with optimally placed blood samples for the tail.
- A Bezier interpolation algorithm links image and blood sample data points.
- microPET imaging and blood sampling were performed in mice following 18FDG administration.
Main Results:
- The bsPTAC curve showed distortions compared to HIBS due to temporal limitations and sampling delays.
- HIBS-derived curves were more consistent, accurately reflecting plasma and tissue exchange rates.
- Kinetic simulations indicated reduced bias in parameter estimates using HIBS.
Conclusions:
- The HIBS method provides a consistent and accurate input function for microPET quantification in mice.
- HIBS overcomes limitations associated with traditional bsPTAC, offering a superior alternative.

