Singapore has bolstered its molecular imaging and translational research capabilities with the launch of the Molecular Imaging and Theranostics Centre. This initiative, a collaboration between the National University Hospital and the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine at the National University of Singapore, aims to cement Singapore’s leadership in precision medicine across Asia, according to GlobalData.
A standout feature of the centre is Singapore’s first total-body PET/CT system, developed with Siemens Healthineers. This advanced scanner allows for full-body imaging in a single position, offering higher detection sensitivity, shorter scan times, and reduced radiation exposure compared to traditional systems. “Total-body PET/CT provides simultaneous coverage of all major organ systems,” said Nidhi Bharti, a Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData. This capability is particularly beneficial in oncology and chronic inflammatory conditions, where diseases often affect multiple organs.
The centre’s integrated approach, combining clinical services with research, expands opportunities for studying tracer kinetics and evaluating new radiopharmaceuticals. This setup allows researchers to analyse imaging data under routine clinical conditions, enhancing the understanding of real-world performance. Bharti noted, “Access to longitudinal imaging data from whole-body scans allows researchers to detect subtle physiological variations.”
This development aligns with Singapore’s broader precision medicine strategy, complementing national initiatives like the National Precision Medicine Programme. By fostering collaboration between clinicians and researchers, the centre aims to generate robust datasets and contribute to standardised imaging methodologies across Asia.
