| abstract |
Transgenic animals and cells are provided that comprise an imaging marker transgene. The imaging marker is expressed on the cell surface, and is capable of binding at high affinity a radiolabeled hapten that provides a signal useful in emission computed tomography. A preferred imaging marker is an antibody fragment, e.g. a single chain variable region (scFv). Radiolabeled haptens of interest include metal chelates, and may also include radiolabled small molecules. The animals or cells are monitored in vivo by administering the radiolabeled hapten, and localizing expression through SPECT or PET acquisition and reconstruction. |