Ephoran Multi Imaging Solutions is a contract research organization (CRO) located in the Bio Industry Park of Canavese at Colleretto Giacosa (Torino, Italy), offering preclinical imaging services. In vivo preclinical imaging is the main specialization of Ephoran in particular for the evaluation of the contrastographic properties of novel contrast agents for different imaging techniques and for the application of imaging techniques in the assessment of the therapeutic properties of drugs.
Ephoran offers the opportunity to apply a translational pharmacological approach in drug research and development, this consists in evaluating in animal models a molecular-based proof of biological activity and mechanism of action, and translating it into the clinical setting. It has access to a wide array of preclinical imaging systems including MRI, CT, PET, SPECT, bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging covering all aspects of molecular imaging from anatomical to functional and molecular levels.
The facility for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is endowed with equipments allowing experiments in small and large preclinical animal models and including 0.2 (clinical), 3 and 7 Tesla (preclinical), horizontal bore MR imagers with full facilities for in vivo and in vitro activities and multi-nuclear capability. The Ultrasound Imaging Laboratory is equipped with an High resolution micro-ultrasound system operating with a spatial resolution of < 30 µm for mouse and rat imaging. The Optical Imaging Facility is equipped with a system for luminescence and fluorescence and an advanced TD (Time-Domain) Optical Imaging system for Near Infrared Red allowing reconstruction and quantification and 3D-image.
The PET Laboratory is equipped with a PET/SPECT Scanner providing a simple tool for Multimode Functional Imaging on Small Animals. Expertise of Ephoran's founders guarantees outstanding knowledge in PET technique in particular in the design and synthesis of dedicated PET agents and in their applications in clinical animal model testing. A PET/SPECT facility, GMP authorized, operating close to the laboratory, guarantees for supplying research PET tracers in the framework of clinical and preclinical studies. PET Molecular Imaging (custom labeling) applied to drug discovery (for both preclinical and clinical research) is available on demand.
Imaging procedures have been developed for the most common xenograft, orthotopic and transgenic animal models to be used for research and development studies. Ephoran has developed strong and qualified scientific collaborations with academia and research institutions in order to develop state-of-the-art molecular and preclinical imaging in cells and laboratory animals.