Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

The EchoMRI measures whole body composition (e.g. fat mass, lean body mass, total body water) in small live animals and isolated organ tissues. These measurements are important for indicating fat accumulation in the whole body, as well as in organs. Importantly, the EchoMRI uses technology that allows these measurements to be obtained non-invasively and without causing stress to the animals. It is very easy to use and each scan is completed within 90 seconds. These user-friendly and non-invasive features are especially important because our research program involves longitudinal studies where repeated measurements must be taken from the same animal over a long time period. It is a stand-alone unit about the size of a medium filing cabinet, sits on casters so it is easy to move around and it does not require additional requirements like radiation shielding, cooling or electrical power to operate it safely. This indicates that it will be readily accessible for all collaborating users.*The EchoMRI is vital for us to complete our federally and provincially funded research programs. Abnormal fat accumulation or loss of lean body mass have significant impact on the well-being of an animal. We will be using these measurements to identify internal (biological) and external (diet or environmental toxins) factors that regulate development, growth, stress, and motivated behaviors. In parallel, we will also be able to identify whether abnormalities are attributed only to certain organs. This adds to the precision and accuracy of our findings. *We are a high caliber team of researchers who have experience using the EchoMRI and we also have dedicated facility and lab managers that will be responsible for the scheduling, training, and maintenance of the EchoMRI. We expect that more than 50 trainees will gain hands-on training on this instrument and by doing so, they will be able to streamline their workflow and obtain direct measures of adiposity and body composition that are more accurate and reliable. This is a cutting-edge and innovative instrument that is the current industry standard. Our HQP will gain immersive and comprehensive experience that elevates their training so they may remain competitive for job positions in academia or industry. *