Imaging immune responses to implanted biomaterials

This PhD project will focus on improving preclinical imaging of inflammation around device implant sites. The primary method will be through the design, synthesis, and application of novel MRI contrast agents that can target and report on acute and chronic inflammation biomarkers. By advancing the imaging tools at our disposal, we will be able to non-invasively monitor inflammation pathology in living subjects in real-time. Initial focus will be on preclinical rodent models in order to guide further development of medical devices by monitoring the effects of different materials/applications. Long-term goals include translation to the clinic with potential applications beyond implant related inflammation.

Two approaches will be explored to address this challenge. The first will rely on nanoparticle-based MRI contrast agents coupled to inflammation-specific antibodies. These agents can be topically or systemically administered and selectively accumulate at sites of inflammation via biomarker recognition. Judicious selection of immune-responsive biomarkers should allow various stages of inflammation to be mapped. The second approach utilises small molecule MRI contrast agents that report on the underlying physiological condition around device implantation. Example targets include pH and temperature, which are both substantially altered during the immune response. More invasive complimentary techniques (e.g. electrical recordings, histology) will be carried out in parallel to validate new techniques and imaging agents.