Small Animal MRI Center for Research Use with Technical Advantage – Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University

Director, Professor	Akiko SATOH
Assistant Professor	Takuya URUSHIHATA

The only support center in the Tohoku region providing research resources for high-resolution MRI technology.

The Small Animal MRI Center for Research Use with Technical Advantage (RUTA) was established on June 1, 2024, following the transfer of 7T-MRI system from Dr. Kawashima’s laboratory to IDAC. Since then, RUTA has provided high-resolution imaging techniques for a wide range of research specimens including rodent brains, organs, whole bodies, plants, and abiotic products.

The Brain Dynamics Building, where RUTA is located

The current 7T-MRI system operated RUTA

Research Topics

・Supporting over 30 researchers and 20 research projects conducted within and outside the institution.
・Offers a well-suited evironment for integrating MRI with other animal experiments, including behavioral tests.
・The adjacent animal facility allows for longuitudinal studies, which are essential for aging study.