Research in this emphasis addresses pathomechanisms of cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial dysfunction and infarction, atherosclerosis, arteritis, thrombosis and embolism as well as kidney dysfunction. It also covers investigation of metabolic pathways and mechanisms as well as metabolic diseases such as diabetes and osteoporosis. The emphasis may also include investigations on the gut-liver axis, liver and pancreas function (including islet cells) as well as on metabolism in fat tissues and other pathologically altered tissues and tumors. Studies on therapeutic interventions (e.g. new drugs or cell transplantations) will also be considered.
Probes & Targets
The design, chemical synthesis and characterization of imaging probes or reporter genes and their targets prior to in vivo applications. Research targeting new biological mechanisms where imaging is used as a tool to gain mechanistic insights into disease are included. All imaging modalities covered.
Preclinical Imaging
All applications where new imaging tools and probes are evaluated in preclinical models belong to this category. It also includes the preclinical testing of previously developed imaging probes for new applications/uses.
Translational and Human Studies
Research on humans or (non-human) studies with demonstrated potential for clinical impact or immediate translation should be submitted to this category. It includes prospective and retrospective studies as well as studies on new pharmaceuticals at phase I-IV where imaging plays a significant role in the study. Studies on Omics and its combination with imaging are also welcome.
Image-guided Therapy and Theranostics
Research focuses on theranostic applications of molecular imaging probes to visualize biological processes in real-time, enabling treatment planning and response monitoring. It explores novel integration of molecular imaging with conventional/genetic therapies, imaging biomarkers, and innovative nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems for managing cardiovascular diseases, including theranostic strategies for preclinical testing and human translational applications.