# Purchase of an Image-Guided Small-Animal Irradiator

> **NIH NIH S10** · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · 2024 · $566,960

## Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract
Washington University in St. Louis has a rich tradition of radiation research and is a world leader in the field of
radiation oncology for clinical care, as well as physics and biological research. Over the past twenty years, much
emphasis has been placed on the development of instrumentation for the non-invasive imaging of biological
processes in small animals, thereby providing investigators with a better understanding of the biology and the
potential of therapeutic interventions in preclinical models. In this regard, Washington University is a recognized
leader, with outstanding programs and instrumentation for preclinical magnetic resonance, nuclear, and optical
imaging. Preclinical photon irradiators that can deliver radiation to precise anatomical locations in small animals
are an important component of these research efforts. We currently have an XStrahl small animal radiation
research platform (SARRP) irradiator, however, it is nearing the end its useful lifetime and the technology is
outdated. We therefore request funds to purchase a new, state-of-the-art Precision X-Ray SmART+ Biological
Irradiator for small animal radiation delivery. We believe this irradiator is superior to the latest irradiator produced
by Xstrahl. The state-of-the-art SmART+, is an image-guided, isocentric (360°rotation, with arc therapy
capability), self-shielded research irradiator with integrated safety interlock system. It combines a high resolution
(100 µm) cone-beam CT imaging system and a high-dose rate (up to approximately 6.5 Gy/min) therapeutic X-
ray source into a single integrated, computer-controlled platform. It comes standard with a 4500W generator and
has the highest degree of targeting accuracy 0.05mm about the isocenter. Research projects for seven major
users with NIH funding and a critical need for the SmART+ are described, along with two minor users. The PI
has managed the current small animal irradiator for the past eight years and has of expertise in preclinical
radiation and cancer biology research. He has assembled a strong team to oversee operations and QA of the
instrument. In addition, Washington University has made a significant institutional commitment to ensure the
successful use of the device after its installation. The irradiator will allow investigators to study basic questions
regarding radiation research in an in vivo, preclinical model that will eventually lead to new paradigms in the way
we treat disease in the clinical setting.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10853698
- **Project number:** 1S10OD036348-01
- **Recipient organization:** WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Buck E. Rogers
- **Activity code:** S10 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $566,960
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-07-01 → 2025-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10853698

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10853698, Purchase of an Image-Guided Small-Animal Irradiator (1S10OD036348-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10853698. Licensed CC0.

---

*[NIH grants dataset](/datasets/nih-grants) · CC0 1.0*