TRUST

Our Vision

To develop next-generation acoustically responsive technologies that enhance diagnosis, guide treatment, and improve outcomes for patients through precise, noninvasive ultrasound-based solutions.

Our Mission

The Translational Research in Ultrasound Theranostics (TRUST) research program brings together experts in material science, biomedical engineering and ultrasound imaging to design novel acoustically responsive materials to develop the next generation of ultrasound contrast agents. The TRUST program also works closely with clinical collaborators to build new tools to improve current quantitative ultrasound imaging techniques. Finally, the TRUST program is also at the forefront of image-guided drug delivery innovation as it developed a first in class ultrasound-guided drug delivery platform for the delivery of targeted therapies.

About Us

The Translational Research in Ultrasound Theranostics (TRUST) research program is an interdisciplinary initiative at the intersection of material science, biomedical engineering, and ultrasound imaging, aiming to drive innovations with significant medical impact. By designing novel acoustically responsive materials, TRUST seeks to develop the next generation of ultrasound contrast agents, with the potential to enhance diagnostic precision and improve disease detection.

In collaboration with clinicians, TRUST is also dedicated to advancing quantitative ultrasound imaging techniques, striving to build tools that could enhance imaging accuracy and optimize clinical decision-making. Furthermore, the program is leading efforts in image-guided drug delivery innovation, having developed a first-in-class ultrasound-guided drug delivery platform. This technology holds promise for targeted therapy delivery, with the potential to improve treatment precision, minimize side effects, and maximize therapeutic efficacy.

By pushing the boundaries of ultrasound-based theranostics, TRUST aims to transform medical imaging and drug delivery, paving the way for future breakthroughs in personalized, non-invasive, and highly effective treatments for cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and other critical health conditions.

Faculty & Staff

Research Projects

Associated Cores

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Small Animal Imaging Resource (SAIR)

SAIR is an institutional facility that promotes and facilitates small animal imaging related to models of human disease with state-of-the-art equipment including depth resolved or planar optical imaging (fluorescence (FLI), bioluminescence (BLI) and chemiluminescence (CLI)), MRI, ultrasound, photoacoustic tomography, PET/CT, SPECT/CT and planar scintigraphy
Infrastructure for animal handling (e.g., anesthesia, infusion, monitoring vital signs)
Experienced investigators and technical staff capable of undertaking imaging and assisting in data interpretation are associated with the Resource and provide consultation on experimental planning, analysis and validation, and data archiving.
Expertise in pulse programming and implementation for novel MRI experiments, design and acquisition or building of MR coils, choice of reporter molecules and /or genes, radiolabeling procedures and synthesis of ligands.
Currently administered jointly by the Advanced Imaging Research Center (AIRC) and the Department of Radiology

Translational Molecular Imaging Core (TMIC)

Cyclotron and radiochemistry facility approved for CGMP production of PET radiopharmaceuticals for human use. Capable of producing 6 radioisotopes and >30 radiotracers in addition to the FDA-approved tracers
A regulatory office in the Department of Radiology facilitates Investigational New Drug (IND) and Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDA) approval of radiotracers.
Radiochemistry and nuclear medicine experts to advise investigators on the development and implementation of imaging protocols in a range of disease models (e.g., cancer, diabetes, metabolism, cardiotoxicity, neurodegenerative diseases, etc.)
Pre-clinical imaging including a Siemens Inveon PET/CT scanner for small animal imaging
State-of-the-art human imaging in the NE2 building including a GE Discovery IQ five ring PET/CT scanner and a Siemens 3T Biograph hybrid PET/MR scanner, both located in close proximity to our cyclotron facility

Publications