The Small Animal Model & Imaging (SAMI) SIG at Newcastle University (NU) is a community-driven initiative that unites local expertise in animal welfare, disease models, in vivo imaging technology and image analysis. SAMI serves as a collaborative platform, connecting inexperienced basic scientists and clinicians with academics and Research Technical Professionals (RTPs) possessing the legal authority and skills necessary to conduct high-standard preclinical research using state-of-the-art facilities.

With the 3Rs principles (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) at its core, SAMI offers ethical and humane research practices by minimising the use of animals, reducing their distress, and refining experimental procedures.

To its members, SAMI provides a training platform through a comprehensive trainer-trainee system. SAMI members will be able to make use of SAMI pool of experts to enhance their skills and knowledge in critical disease areas of research and technology.

Research areas

• Animal Welfare
• Oncology
• Cardiovascular disease
• Chronic liver disease
• Ageing
• Mitochondrial disease
• Drug design and development
• Immunology and inflammation
• Neuroscience

In Vivo Imaging

• In vivo optical imaging
• Bioluminescence
• Fluorescence
• Nuclear Imaging (Cerenkov)
• Ultrasound based Shear Wave Elastography (SWE)
• Micro Computerised Tomography (CT)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Image analysis

The overarching goal of SAMI is to cultivate skills and expertise that propel the development of mechanisms and methodologies, adhering to the principles of the 3Rs. The focus is on non-invasive and longitudinal monitoring of disease progression, fostering advancements in the creation of impactful new diagnostic tools and drugs that prioritize significant benefits for patients.

Contact details: nimaging@ncl.ac.uk