Small Animal Imaging Market By Modality (Micro-MRI, Micro-CT, Micro-PET, Micro-SPECT, Optical Imaging, Ultrasound, Multimodal Imaging); By Application (Oncology, Neurology, Cardiology, Inflammation, Drug Development, Gene Expression); By End User (Academic Institutions, Pharmaceutical Companies, CROs, Imaging Centers); By Geography, Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Global Small Animal Imaging Market to grow at a 8.3% CAGR, from $3.4 billion in 2024 to $5.53 billion by 2030, powered by micro-CT, MRI, PET/SPECT, ultrasound, and AI imaging—as noted by Strategic Market Research.

 

Small animal imaging refers to the non-invasive visualization and quantification of biological processes in live animals, typically rodents, used in preclinical research. These imaging modalities—such as MRI, PET, SPECT, CT, and optical imaging—enable researchers to study disease progression, assess treatment efficacy, and accelerate the drug discovery cycle. As pharmaceutical R&D becomes more complex and precision-focused, these technologies are increasingly indispensable to translational medicine.

 

The market is strategically significant due to its central role in biomedical research , oncology studies , neurological disorder modeling , and cardiovascular experimentation . Imaging small animals allows researchers to minimize variables, track physiological changes in real time, and reduce overall study costs by obtaining more insights per subject. Moreover, growing ethical concerns around animal testing are leading to demand for technologies that reduce the number of animals needed, boosting demand for high-resolution, multiparametric imaging systems.

 

Several macroeconomic and sectoral factors are converging to shape this market:

• Technological convergence is driving enhanced imaging capabilities, including hybrid modalities like PET/MRI and functional molecular imaging tools that go beyond anatomy to probe metabolic and molecular pathways.

• Regulatory reforms in clinical trial processes and preclinical validation across North America and Europe are increasing scrutiny, necessitating more robust data from the preclinical phase.

• The rising global disease burden , particularly in oncology, cardiology, and neurodegenerative diseases, is accelerating drug development pipelines, which in turn drives the need for small animal models and corresponding imaging tools.

• Growing investments in preclinical CROs , government-funded research laboratories, and academic collaborations are expanding the end-user base.

 

Key stakeholders in the ecosystem include:

• Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) developing multimodal imaging platforms.

• Contract Research Organizations (CROs) supporting pharmaceutical preclinical pipelines.

• Academic and government research institutions focused on translational medicine.

• Biotech and pharmaceutical firms leveraging imaging tools for proof-of-concept and drug validation.

• Private investors and government funders , especially in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, prioritizing infrastructure for research-driven growth.

The market stands at a critical inflection point—where precision-driven biomedical research and cross-disciplinary innovation are transforming how preclinical validation is conducted.

 

Comprehensive Market Snapshot

• The Global Small Animal Imaging Market is projected to grow at an 8.3% CAGR, expanding from USD 3.4 billion in 2024 to USD 5.53 billion by 2030.

• Based on a 32% share, the USA Small Animal Imaging Market is estimated at USD 1.09 billion in 2024, and at a 7.1% CAGR is projected to reach USD 1.65 billion by 2030.

• With a 23% share, Europe is estimated at USD 0.78 billion in 2024, and at a 6.5% CAGR is expected to reach USD 1.13 billion by 2030.

• With a 20% share, APAC is estimated at USD 0.68 billion in 2024, and at a 9.5% CAGR is projected to reach USD 1.16 billion by 2030.

Regional Insights

• North America (USA) accounted for the largest market share of 32% in 2024, driven by strong preclinical research funding, pharmaceutical innovation, and advanced imaging infrastructure.

• Asia Pacific (APAC) is expected to expand at the fastest CAGR of 9.5% during 2024–2030, supported by growing CRO activity and expanding biomedical research capabilities.

 

By Modality

• Micro-CT held the largest market share of 26% in 2024, owing to its extensive use in oncology and skeletal imaging studies.

• Multimodal Imaging is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR during 2024–2030, driven by demand for combined functional and anatomical imaging.

Estimated 2024 Market Split (Global – USD 3.4B)

• Micro-MRI accounted for 18% of the global market, with an estimated value of USD 0.61 billion in 2024.

• Micro-CT held the largest modality share at 26%, representing USD 0.88 billion in 2024.

• Micro-PET captured 14% of the market, equivalent to USD 0.48 billion in 2024.

• Micro-SPECT represented 10%, amounting to USD 0.34 billion in 2024.

• Optical Imaging accounted for 12%, valued at USD 0.41 billion in 2024.

• Ultrasound imaging contributed 8%, totaling USD 0.27 billion in 2024.

• Multimodal Imaging represented 12%, with a market value of USD 0.41 billion in 2024, and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR through 2030.

 

By Application

• Oncology accounted for the highest market share of 38% in 2024, reflecting its dominant role in tumor biology and drug efficacy studies.

• Gene Expression is expected to grow at a strong CAGR during 2024–2030, driven by advances in molecular imaging and genomics research.

Estimated 2024 Market Split (Global)

• Oncology dominated the market with a 38% share, translating to USD 1.29 billion in 2024.

• Neurology accounted for 18%, with a market size of USD 0.61 billion in 2024.

• Cardiology held 12%, valued at USD 0.41 billion in 2024.

• Inflammation-related applications represented 10%, totaling USD 0.34 billion in 2024.

• Drug development applications accounted for 14%, equivalent to USD 0.48 billion in 2024.

• Gene expression studies captured 8%, amounting to USD 0.27 billion in 2024, and are expected to grow at a strong CAGR through 2030.

 

By End User

• Academic Institutions contributed the largest share of 40% in 2024, driven by university-led translational research and government funding.

• Contract Research Organizations (CROs) are anticipated to expand at a robust CAGR over 2024–2030, supported by outsourced preclinical studies.

Estimated 2024 Market Split (Global)

• Academic institutions contributed the largest share at 40%, representing USD 1.36 billion in 2024.

• Pharmaceutical companies accounted for 30%, with a market value of USD 1.02 billion in 2024.

• Contract Research Organizations (CROs) held 20%, totaling USD 0.68 billion in 2024, and are expected to expand at a robust CAGR.

• Imaging centers represented 10%, equivalent to USD 0.34 billion in 2024.

 

By Treatment Setting

• Hospitals & Research Hospitals captured the largest market share of 42% in 2024, reflecting high usage of advanced imaging systems for translational studies.

• Telehealth & Digital Imaging Platforms are expected to witness accelerated growth throughout 2024–2030, driven by AI-enabled remote image analysis and cloud-based data sharing.

Estimated 2024 Market Split (Global)

• Hospitals and research hospitals captured the largest share at 42%, corresponding to USD 1.43 billion in 2024.

• Ambulatory surgical centers accounted for 22%, with a market value of USD 0.75 billion in 2024.

• Diagnostic imaging centers represented 21%, totaling USD 0.71 billion in 2024.

• Telehealth and digital imaging platforms held 15%, amounting to USD 0.51 billion in 2024, and are expected to experience accelerated growth through 2030.

 

Strategic Questions Driving the Next Phase of the Global Small Animal Imaging Market

1. What imaging modalities, platforms, software, and services are explicitly included within the Global Small Animal Imaging Market, and which applications (e.g., clinical imaging, large-animal imaging, in vitro diagnostics) are considered out of scope?

2. How does the Small Animal Imaging Market differ structurally from adjacent markets such as clinical diagnostic imaging, in vivo CRO services, laboratory instrumentation, and digital pathology?

3. What is the current and forecasted size of the Global Small Animal Imaging Market, and how is value distributed across major modalities, applications, and end-user groups?

4. How is revenue allocated among Micro-CT, Micro-MRI, Micro-PET, Micro-SPECT, optical imaging, ultrasound, and multimodal platforms, and how is this modality mix expected to evolve?

5. Which application areas (e.g., oncology, neurology, cardiology, inflammation, drug development, gene expression) account for the largest and fastest-growing revenue pools?

6. Which imaging segments contribute disproportionately to profit and margin generation rather than system installation volume alone?

7. How does demand vary across basic research, translational studies, and late-stage preclinical development, and how does this affect imaging modality selection?

8. How are first-line screening tools, advanced functional imaging systems, and multimodal platforms evolving within preclinical research workflows?

9. What role do system utilization rates, upgrade cycles, service contracts, and long-term platform persistence play in segment-level revenue growth?

10. How are research funding availability, institutional budgets, and access to advanced imaging infrastructure shaping demand across market segments?

11. What technical complexity, regulatory constraints, training requirements, or data-integration challenges limit penetration in specific imaging segments?

12. How do pricing pressure, capital expenditure constraints, public funding rules, and procurement cycles influence revenue realization across imaging platforms?

13. How strong is the current and mid-term technology pipeline, and which emerging innovations (AI-driven analytics, molecular probes, hybrid systems) are likely to create new imaging segments?

14. To what extent will next-generation imaging technologies expand the addressable research population versus intensify competition within existing modalities?

15. How are advances in detector technology, image reconstruction software, automation, and AI improving resolution, throughput, and reproducibility?

16. How will platform aging, rapid innovation, and performance gaps reshape competitive dynamics across installed imaging systems?

17. What role will refurbished equipment, shared imaging facilities, and imaging-as-a-service models play in price erosion and access expansion?

18. How are leading imaging manufacturers and CROs aligning modality portfolios, software ecosystems, and service offerings to defend or expand market share?

19. Which geographic markets are expected to outperform global growth, and which research segments (pharma R&D, CROs, academic labs) are driving this outperformance?

20. How should manufacturers, CROs, and investors prioritize specific modalities, applications, and regions to maximize long-term value creation in the Small Animal Imaging Market?

 

Segment-Level Insights and Market Structure in the Global Small Animal Imaging Market

The Small Animal Imaging Market is structured around distinct imaging modalities, application areas, and end-user environments, reflecting differences in research objectives, study complexity, and preclinical workflow requirements. Each segment contributes uniquely to overall market value, competitive positioning, and long-term growth potential, shaped by factors such as research intensity, translational relevance, and technology adoption cycles.

Modality Insights:

Micro-CT Imaging

Micro-CT represents a foundational modality within the small animal imaging landscape, particularly valued for its high-resolution anatomical imaging capabilities. It is widely used in oncology, orthopedics, and cardiovascular research to visualize structural changes and disease progression. From a market perspective, Micro-CT systems benefit from broad applicability and relatively high utilization rates, making them a consistent contributor to installed base and service revenues. Over time, their role is evolving through integration with contrast agents and hybrid imaging configurations that extend functional insights.

Micro-MRI Imaging

Micro-MRI occupies a strategically important position due to its superior soft tissue contrast and non-ionizing nature. It is especially relevant in neurological, cardiovascular, and longitudinal disease studies where repeated imaging is required. While adoption is more selective compared to Micro-CT due to higher cost and technical complexity, Micro-MRI systems are gaining importance in advanced translational research settings. Ongoing improvements in magnet strength, acquisition speed, and image reconstruction are expected to enhance their relevance within high-end research environments.

Nuclear Imaging (Micro-PET and Micro-SPECT)

Micro-PET and Micro-SPECT represent functionally driven imaging segments focused on metabolic, molecular, and receptor-level visualization. These modalities play a critical role in oncology, drug development, and biomarker research, where functional readouts are essential. Commercially, nuclear imaging systems are associated with higher system value and specialized infrastructure requirements, positioning them as premium offerings within the market. Their importance is expected to grow as molecular imaging probes and radiotracer development expand.

Optical Imaging

Optical imaging systems serve as accessible and cost-effective tools for early-stage research and high-throughput screening. Their strength lies in gene expression studies, inflammation research, and basic biological investigations. While optical imaging contributes lower per-system revenue compared to advanced modalities, it supports wide adoption across academic and discovery-focused settings. Technological improvements in sensitivity and multiplexing are gradually expanding the scope of optical imaging applications.

Ultrasound Imaging

Small animal ultrasound systems provide real-time, non-invasive imaging with strong utility in cardiovascular and developmental biology studies. Their portability and relatively low operational complexity support frequent use in longitudinal studies. From a segmentation standpoint, ultrasound occupies a complementary role, often serving as a first-line imaging tool within broader multimodality workflows.

Multimodal Imaging Platforms

Multimodal imaging systems represent an innovation-driven segment that combines anatomical and functional imaging capabilities within a single platform. These systems address growing demand for integrated datasets and improved study efficiency. Although adoption is currently concentrated in well-funded institutions and CROs, multimodal platforms are gaining strategic importance as research increasingly emphasizes translational relevance and data integration.

 

Application Insights:

Oncology

Oncology remains the dominant application segment within the Small Animal Imaging Market, driven by the central role of imaging in tumor biology, treatment response assessment, and drug efficacy studies. Imaging is embedded across all stages of oncology research, making this segment a major driver of modality adoption and technological advancement.

Neurology

Neurology-focused imaging applications emphasize detailed visualization of brain structure and function. Demand in this segment is shaped by rising research into neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric disorders, and brain injury models. Modalities offering high soft tissue contrast and functional insights are particularly relevant in this space.

Cardiology

Cardiovascular imaging applications rely on modalities capable of capturing dynamic physiological processes. Small animal imaging supports studies in heart development, vascular disease, and therapeutic intervention testing. This segment benefits from increasing interest in chronic disease models and regenerative medicine research.

Inflammation and Immunology

Imaging in inflammation and immunology research focuses on tracking immune responses and disease activity over time. Functional and molecular imaging modalities play a key role in visualizing inflammatory processes, particularly in autoimmune and infectious disease models.

Drug Development and Gene Expression

Drug development and gene expression applications represent growth-oriented segments, where imaging enables non-invasive assessment of target engagement, pharmacodynamics, and biological pathways. As precision medicine and molecular research expand, these applications are expected to gain increasing importance.

 

End User Insights:

Academic Institutions

Academic and research institutions represent the largest and most diverse end-user segment. Their demand spans basic research through translational studies, supporting adoption across a wide range of imaging modalities. Funding availability and collaborative research initiatives significantly influence purchasing decisions within this segment.

Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies

Pharmaceutical companies utilize small animal imaging primarily to support drug discovery, preclinical validation, and candidate selection. Their focus on efficiency and translational relevance drives demand for advanced and high-throughput imaging platforms.

Contract Research Organizations (CROs)

CROs represent a strategically important and fast-evolving end-user segment. Imaging is central to their service offerings, supporting outsourced preclinical studies for pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients. CROs tend to adopt versatile and multimodal platforms to maximize utilization and service differentiation.

Imaging Centers

Dedicated imaging centers provide specialized access to advanced imaging infrastructure, often supporting multiple research clients. Their role is expanding as shared-resource models and imaging-as-a-service gain traction.

 

Segment Evolution Perspective

While established imaging modalities continue to anchor current research workflows, innovation-driven segments such as molecular and multimodal imaging are gradually reshaping the market structure. At the same time, application focus is shifting toward translational and precision research, increasing demand for integrated and high-value imaging solutions. Together, these dynamics are expected to influence how value, competition, and investment are distributed across segments of the Small Animal Imaging Market over the coming years.

 

Table: Key Commercial and Advanced-Stage Imaging Platforms in the Small Animal Imaging Market

Product / Platform	Company	Market Status	Imaging Modality / Technology Focus
Inveon Multimodality System	Siemens Healthineers	Commercially established (legacy system)	Integrated Micro-PET / Micro-CT for preclinical anatomical–functional imaging
Quantum GX Micro-CT	Revvity	Commercially established	High-speed, high-resolution Micro-CT for longitudinal in vivo studies
BioSpec MRI System	Bruker	Commercially established	High-field preclinical MRI for neuro, cardiac, and metabolic imaging
nanoScan PET/CT	Mediso	Commercially established	Preclinical PET/CT with quantitative molecular imaging capabilities
IVIS Spectrum Series	Revvity	Commercially established	Optical bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging for small animals
Vevo F2 Imaging Platform	FUJIFILM VisualSonics	Commercially established	Ultra-high-frequency ultrasound for real-time functional and vascular imaging
Albira Si PET/SPECT/CT	Bruker	Commercially established	Triple-modality PET/SPECT/CT for preclinical molecular research
U-SPECT+ / CT	MILabs	Commercially established	Ultra-high-resolution Micro-SPECT with multi-pinhole collimation
NEXTGEN Multimodal Platform	TriFoil Imaging	Late-stage development / early commercial	Hybrid optical and nuclear imaging concepts for preclinical research
AI-Enabled Image Analysis Suite	Bruker	Commercial rollout (modular software)	AI-assisted reconstruction, segmentation, and quantitative image analysis
Total-Body Small Animal PET (concept systems)	United Imaging	Advanced prototype / research programs	Ultra-high-sensitivity PET concepts for whole-body dynamic small-animal imaging
Imaging-as-a-Service Platforms	Charles River Laboratories	Commercially established and expanding	CRO-based multimodality preclinical imaging services

 

Key Recent Developments by Companies in the Small Animal Imaging Market

 

• Bruker: Expansion of preclinical MRI and PET platform integration
  Bruker advanced its small animal imaging portfolio by strengthening interoperability between high-field MRI and PET systems, enabling synchronized anatomical and functional imaging in preclinical oncology and neuroscience research. This reflects a broader industry move toward multimodal platforms that reduce workflow fragmentation in translational studies.

• PerkinElmer: Acceleration of optical imaging solutions for in vivo research
  PerkinElmer enhanced its optical imaging systems with improved sensitivity and software-driven quantitative analysis, supporting longitudinal small animal studies. The development underscores continued demand for non-invasive, repeatable imaging techniques in drug discovery and disease modeling.

• Fujifilm VisualSonics: Integrated Ultrasound + Photoacoustic System Launch
  Fujifilm VisualSonics introduced the Vevo F2 LAZR-X20, a combined ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging platform designed for small animal research. This system spans from ultrahigh to low frequencies, enabling detailed visualization of tissue structure and functional contrast in applications such as oncology, cardiovascular biology, and neurobiology. It enhances depth penetration and high-resolution imaging compared with prior generation tools, supporting more comprehensive data collection in preclinical studies.

   

• MILabs: Modular SPECT/PET system enhancements
  MILabs expanded the flexibility of its modular nuclear imaging systems, allowing researchers to tailor detector configurations to specific study requirements. This modularity trend highlights growing customization needs across academic and pharmaceutical preclinical labs.

• TriFoil Imaging: Optical and CT hybrid workflow refinement
  TriFoil Imaging refined its hybrid optical-CT platforms to improve co-registration accuracy and throughput. The development reflects increasing emphasis on combined structural and molecular data acquisition in small animal research environments.

• Mediso: Preclinical nuclear imaging software upgrades
  Mediso released software enhancements focused on automated reconstruction and quantitative analysis for small animal PET and SPECT imaging. These updates aim to reduce operator variability and improve reproducibility in translational imaging studies.

• Aspect Imaging: Compact MRI innovation for animal research facilities
  Aspect Imaging advanced compact, cryogen-free MRI systems designed for small animal imaging labs with space and infrastructure constraints. This development aligns with the broader push toward decentralized, lab-friendly imaging solutions.

• MR Solutions: High-field small bore MRI system upgrades
  MR Solutions enhanced gradient performance and imaging speed in its small bore MRI systems, supporting higher throughput and improved image resolution. These improvements address rising demand for detailed anatomical imaging in neurological and musculoskeletal research models.

• Scanco Medical: Micro-CT innovation for bone and tissue analysis
  Scanco Medical introduced refinements in micro-CT imaging resolution and analysis software, strengthening its position in skeletal biology and orthopedic research applications. This reflects continued investment in high-precision structural imaging.

• Bioscan: Focus on affordability and accessibility in nuclear imaging
  Bioscan emphasized streamlined system designs aimed at lowering cost barriers for small animal SPECT and PET imaging, supporting wider adoption in academic and emerging-market research institutions.

 

Current Market Development Perspective

Across the Small Animal Imaging Market, recent developments collectively point to a shift toward multimodal integration, software-driven analytics, and compact system design. Vendors are prioritizing workflow efficiency, quantitative reproducibility, and infrastructure flexibility rather than purely incremental hardware upgrades. At the same time, growing translational research demand is reinforcing investment in imaging platforms that can bridge preclinical discovery and clinical relevance, shaping the next phase of competition and innovation.

 

Market Segmentation and Forecast Scope

The global small animal imaging market is structured across four major dimensions: Modality, Application, End User, and Region. Each layer of segmentation reflects how preclinical workflows are evolving—and how imaging solutions are being tailored to fit specific research, therapeutic, and validation objectives.

By Modality

• Micro-CT: This remains the most adopted modality, driven by its versatility in anatomical imaging. It’s extensively used in oncology and bone research, delivering high-resolution 3D scans that help map disease progression.

• Micro-MRI: Known for superior soft-tissue contrast without ionizing radiation, MRI is favored in neurology and longitudinal cardiovascular studies. Despite higher cost, its adoption is rising in translational labs.

• Micro-PET & Micro-SPECT: These nuclear imaging modalities are key to tracking metabolic activity and molecular interactions—critical in oncology and drug discovery. PET leads in precision, while SPECT offers cost-effective versatility.

• Optical Imaging: An accessible, high-sensitivity tool for tracking gene expression, bioluminescence, and inflammation markers. Common in academic labs, it’s also being integrated into multimodal workflows.

• Ultrasound: Real-time and portable, ultrasound plays a growing role in cardiovascular and developmental biology research—especially where repetitive imaging is required.

• Multimodal Imaging Systems: This is the fastest-growing segment, combining anatomical and functional insights (e.g., PET/CT, PET/MRI). They’re increasingly being deployed by CROs and pharma R&D teams looking to cut costs per study and reduce animal usage.

In 2024, Micro-CT holds the top spot with 26% market share, while Multimodal Imaging Systems are expanding at the fastest CAGR through 2030, reflecting demand for richer, consolidated datasets.

 

By Application

• Oncology: The largest application area by a wide margin. Tumor biology, therapy response, and new drug efficacy all rely heavily on imaging for both qualitative and quantitative endpoints.

• Neurology: Rising interest in neurodegenerative disease research—especially Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s—is boosting MRI and PET imaging in this space.

• Cardiology: Imaging heart function and vascular structures in murine models is a growing field. Techniques like ultrasound and MRI are essential for dynamic, real-time assessments.

• Inflammation & Infectious Diseases: Imaging helps visualize immune response, track progression, and assess therapeutic effects—especially in autoimmune or sepsis models.

• Drug Development: From pharmacokinetics to target validation, small animal imaging streamlines go/no-go decisions during preclinical testing phases.

• Gene Expression: Although smaller in size today, this segment is accelerating due to the rise of molecular imaging probes and tools for visualizing gene activity in vivo.

As of 2024, Oncology accounts for 38% of total imaging demand, with Gene Expression expected to grow at the fastest rate, fueled by expanding genomics and bioimaging investments.

 

By End User

• Academic Institutions: The most active user group, representing 40% of the global market in 2024. These labs prioritize system versatility and access to multi-animal imaging platforms.

• Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies: They rely on imaging for preclinical validation and pipeline acceleration. High throughput, repeatability, and data standardization are top priorities.

• Contract Research Organizations (CROs): Growing the fastest, CROs are leveraging imaging to offer bundled preclinical services, often using multimodal platforms to maximize ROI.

• Imaging Centers: Often part of research hospitals or universities, these facilities provide shared access to high-end imaging systems for multiple stakeholders.

CROs are set to gain further ground through 2030, particularly in Asia-Pacific and North America, where outsourcing is becoming standard for early-stage studies.

 

By Region

• North America: The largest regional market with 32% share in 2024, backed by NIH funding, university-led translational research, and pharma-backed imaging programs.

• Europe: A mature market with strong academic networks and emphasis on ethical animal research. Germany, the UK, and France are regional leaders.

• Asia Pacific: The fastest-growing region with 9.5% CAGR (2024–2030). China, Japan, and South Korea are pouring capital into research parks, CRO infrastructure, and molecular imaging platforms.

• Latin America, Middle East & Africa (LAMEA): Still early-stage, but select markets like Brazil, UAE, and Saudi Arabia are ramping up translational capabilities.

In essence, developed markets are doubling down on precision imaging, while emerging economies are accelerating access through compact and modular systems.

The market’s segmentation reflects a maturing yet innovation-sensitive landscape where precision and scalability determine modality adoption across use cases and institutions.

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

The small animal imaging market is undergoing a wave of technological transformation as it responds to the rising demand for precision, automation, and data integration in preclinical research. This section explores the most critical trends shaping the innovation landscape between 2024 and 2030.

1. Integration of Multimodal Imaging Platforms

The shift toward hybrid imaging systems —such as PET/MRI and SPECT/CT —is one of the most disruptive trends in the field. These platforms allow researchers to combine anatomical, functional, and molecular imaging in a single scan session, reducing the number of animals required and enabling deeper insights into disease progression and drug responses.

“Multimodal systems are redefining experimental design by allowing real-time tracking of metabolic and structural changes in vivo,” notes a leading imaging physicist from a translational neuroscience lab in Germany.

 

2. Artificial Intelligence and Image Quantification Tools

AI-driven imaging analytics are streamlining the interpretation of large volumes of preclinical scan data. Machine learning algorithms are increasingly embedded into imaging software to enhance image reconstruction, automate lesion detection, and offer predictive modeling of drug responses.

This integration is especially relevant in high-throughput imaging environments , such as CROs or pharma R&D hubs, where researchers require rapid, reproducible results across multiple test subjects.

 

3. Miniaturization and Portable Imaging Solutions

A new class of compact and cost-efficient imaging systems is emerging, designed for in-lab deployment by research centers with limited capital. Miniaturized optical and ultrasound devices are enabling decentralized experimentation, expanding market access to mid-tier research universities and biotech startups .

“The democratization of small animal imaging is being powered by benchtop innovations—making preclinical imaging more accessible without compromising resolution,” says a biomedical engineer at a device startup in California.

 

4. Molecular Imaging and Contrast Agent Advancements

The development of targeted contrast agents and probes is enabling real-time visualization of specific molecular pathways, proteins, and cellular mechanisms. This trend supports functional imaging approaches that go beyond mere anatomical visualization.

Recent R&D investments have focused on smart probes for inflammation, apoptosis, angiogenesis , and hypoxia , providing higher specificity in disease modeling and drug efficacy trials.

 

5. Strategic Partnerships and Platform Expansion

Manufacturers are increasingly forming technology partnerships with pharmaceutical firms, AI startups , and research institutes to enhance platform compatibility and expand imaging workflows. Co-development agreements for contrast agents and joint ventures in AI-powered image analytics are on the rise.

For example, leading OEMs have initiated collaborative projects with university labs to co-develop plug-in software tools for their existing PET/SPECT imaging suites.

Together, these trends signal a convergence of biomedical engineering, AI, and molecular science—transforming small animal imaging into a more intelligent, integrative, and adaptive research tool.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

The global small animal imaging market is moderately consolidated, with a mix of multinational imaging corporations and niche technology developers competing for innovation leadership. Companies are increasingly focusing on hybrid system development, AI integration, and turnkey imaging solutions tailored for academic and CRO environments.

Below is a profile of key players driving strategic influence in this space:

1. Bruker Corporation

A dominant player in preclinical MRI and PET systems, Bruker is known for its high-field magnetic resonance imaging platforms and multi-modal integration. The company focuses on precision imaging tools for oncology, neurology, and cardiology research. With a global presence and deep academic partnerships, Bruker emphasizes open architecture systems and in-house software ecosystems to promote experimental flexibility.

 

2. PerkinElmer Inc.

PerkinElmer leads in optical and bioluminescence imaging , with strong penetration in academic and early-stage pharmaceutical research settings. Its systems offer ease-of-use, compact design, and integration with automated animal handling. The firm’s strategic positioning lies in affordability, modularity, and real-time data generation capabilities.

 

3. FUJIFILM VisualSonics Inc.

This FUJIFILM subsidiary specializes in high-resolution ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging . The company focuses on applications in cardiovascular, cancer, and developmental biology research. Its imaging systems provide dynamic, real-time imaging without the use of ionizing radiation, attracting significant adoption in longitudinal small animal studies .

 

4. MILabs B.V. (now part of Rigaku Group)

Known for its high-performance SPECT, PET, and CT imaging platforms , MILabs distinguishes itself with ultra-fast acquisition and ultra- high resolution systems. Since its acquisition by Rigaku, MILabs has broadened its geographic reach and integrated molecular imaging tools into Rigaku’s broader portfolio, strengthening their R&D-centric offerings .

 

5. Mediso Ltd.

Headquartered in Europe, Mediso provides a full suite of preclinical imaging systems including PET, SPECT, CT , and hybrid solutions . The company targets CROs and contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs) through flexible software suites and service-centric business models. Mediso has expanded aggressively in Asia-Pacific via distributor networks and localized training hubs.

 

6. LI-COR Biosciences

A specialist in near-infrared fluorescence imaging , LI-COR has strong academic adoption due to its user-friendly systems and molecular imaging reagent kits. The company differentiates through application-specific platforms for Western blot analysis, gene expression, and targeted tumor imaging studies.

 

7. Aspect Imaging

Aspect Imaging offers compact MRI solutions that require minimal infrastructure, enabling access to high-resolution MRI without the complexities of traditional large-scale systems. The firm focuses on plug-and-play usability and serves smaller institutions and startup biotech firms aiming to scale preclinical R&D.

Strategically, companies are competing on the axes of system versatility, imaging speed, modular expansion, and post-processing intelligence. As small animal imaging becomes more data-intensive, firms that offer integrated imaging+analytics ecosystems will likely gain market share.

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

The regional dynamics of the small animal imaging market are shaped by disparities in research infrastructure, funding availability, technological maturity, and regulatory ecosystems. While North America and Europe dominate due to their strong institutional research environments, Asia Pacific is rapidly emerging as the next growth frontier.

North America

North America holds the largest market share , fueled by the presence of top-tier research universities, NIH-funded institutions, and a mature pharmaceutical industry. The U.S. alone accounts for over 32% of global revenue in 2024. Leading academic labs and CROs extensively utilize high-resolution PET/MRI and optical imaging systems.

The region also benefits from robust government funding, strong adoption of AI in medical research, and well-established ethical guidelines for animal studies. Furthermore, technology commercialization pathways are highly developed, enabling faster adoption of innovations emerging from university-industry collaborations.

The dominance of North America is supported not just by infrastructure, but by its role as the hub for translational research and early-stage biotech ventures.

 

Europe

Europe follows closely, supported by high R&D spending from both governmental and private sectors. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are key contributors, with strong participation in EU-funded research programs (e.g., Horizon Europe). Regulatory oversight by EMA ensures that small animal imaging is tightly integrated into preclinical validation frameworks.

The region also leads in sustainability initiatives for animal research, which promotes the adoption of non-invasive imaging techniques as a method to reduce animal use. However, cost constraints in some parts of Southern and Eastern Europe limit adoption of multimodal and AI-powered systems.

 

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region , with an anticipated CAGR exceeding 9.5% from 2024 to 2030 . Countries like China, Japan, South Korea , and India are increasing investments in pharmaceutical manufacturing and clinical trials. Government-sponsored translational medicine programs are pushing demand for preclinical imaging infrastructure.

China, in particular, is aggressively modernizing its lab facilities, with leading universities establishing dedicated animal imaging research parks . Japan’s precision-oriented approach to neurology and regenerative medicine also fuels uptake of advanced micro-MRI and optical tools.

“Asia Pacific is where research scale meets ambition,” notes a CRO executive based in Singapore. “The region is bridging the gap between cost-sensitive operations and cutting-edge imaging needs.”

 

Latin America

Latin America presents moderate growth potential , led by Brazil and Mexico. Academic institutions are increasingly participating in global research networks, but widespread adoption is hampered by budget constraints and limited access to advanced imaging systems . Opportunities exist in forming regional CRO partnerships and offering portable/compact systems to public institutions.

 

Middle East & Africa

MEA remains an underserved region , with most imaging imports directed toward diagnostic rather than research purposes. However, countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are investing in biotechnology hubs and translational medicine as part of their long-term healthcare strategies. Emerging interest in stem cell therapy and genomic medicine could open doors for niche imaging platforms.

Geographically, the market offers mature revenue in the West and rapid scaling in the East—creating dual imperatives for firms to optimize both premium system sales and entry-level solutions.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

The small animal imaging market is shaped by the distinct operational needs and strategic objectives of various end-user groups. From fundamental research to commercial drug development, imaging modalities serve diverse roles across the preclinical ecosystem. This section analyzes how major user segments adopt and utilize imaging systems, followed by a realistic, high-impact use case.

1. Academic & Research Institutions

Academic labs are the largest consumer group , often supported by national research grants or collaborative projects with medical schools. These institutions rely heavily on optical, micro-MRI, and micro-CT systems to explore disease mechanisms, validate genetic models, and publish peer-reviewed findings.

These users prioritize system flexibility, imaging resolution, and cross-modality compatibility , enabling them to conduct a wide variety of studies on oncology, neurology, and inflammation. Open-source software and adaptability to multiple animal models (mice, rats, zebrafish) are also critical purchasing factors.

 

2. Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Companies

Pharma and biotech firms deploy small animal imaging primarily for proof-of-concept validation, toxicity assessment, and therapeutic efficacy studies . Here, speed, automation, and data reproducibility are paramount.

These firms favor multimodal platforms (e.g., PET/MRI or CT/optical systems) that streamline longitudinal studies and reduce the number of required test animals. Integration with data analytics pipelines and compliance with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) also weigh heavily in procurement decisions.

 

3. Contract Research Organizations (CROs)

CROs are fastest-growing adopters , offering imaging as a service to pharmaceutical clients. Their operational focus is on throughput, scalability, and cost-efficiency . Many CROs are upgrading to AI-assisted image reconstruction tools to increase diagnostic precision and reduce analysis time.

Their demand is also driving the growth of service-model business strategies , where OEMs provide bundled systems with training, maintenance, and image processing software.

 

4. Hospitals and Imaging Centers (Research-Affiliated)

Though not a major segment, some university-affiliated hospitals and advanced imaging centers invest in small animal imaging for translational studies that bridge the gap between preclinical and clinical research. These groups often use imaging tools in tandem with human data modeling , particularly in oncology and neurology .

 

Use Case Scenario:

A tertiary medical university in South Korea partnered with a pharmaceutical startup to evaluate a novel immunotherapy drug targeting glioblastoma. Using a PET/MRI system integrated with a custom contrast agent, the research team tracked tumor volume, glucose metabolism, and inflammatory marker expression in murine models over a 6-week period. The non-invasive imaging reduced animal sacrifice rates by 40% and allowed for real-time treatment modulation.

This accelerated the timeline for IND (Investigational New Drug) application filing and demonstrated significant cost savings for both parties.

The value of small animal imaging lies in its capacity to unify experimental precision with ethical efficiency—making it an indispensable tool across the spectrum of biomedical research.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (Past 2 Years)

The small animal imaging industry has seen multiple product launches, partnerships, and research innovations recently that signal deepening market maturity and scientific relevance:

• Bruker launched a new generation of its BioSpec MRI platform with enhanced gradient strength and multi-animal scanning capability, targeting high-throughput neuro-oncology studies.

• Mediso Ltd. announced a strategic distribution partnership in Southeast Asia to expand the availability of its nanoScan PET/CT systems across emerging biotech clusters.

• FUJIFILM VisualSonics introduced an AI-enhanced imaging module that allows real-time tracking of cardiac wall motion and perfusion in rodent models.

• Aspect Imaging launched the world’s smallest integrated MRI for small animals under its M-Series, targeting labs with limited space and budget.

• Researchers at the University of Zurich developed a novel multi-spectral fluorescence imaging probe for simultaneous mapping of cancer stem cell populations in live mice.

 

Opportunities

• AI-Powered Imaging Pipelines Integration of deep learning in image reconstruction, segmentation, and quantification offers unprecedented speed and consistency—particularly valuable to CROs and pharma labs under regulatory scrutiny.

• Emerging Economies & Academic Expansion Rising R&D investments in China, India, and Southeast Asia create a demand wave for modular and compact imaging systems at lower cost tiers.

• Regulatory Push for Non-Invasive Validation Global emphasis on the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) in animal research promotes the adoption of in vivo imaging as a humane and data-rich alternative to conventional post-mortem analysis.

 

Restraints

• High Capital Investment and Maintenance Costs Advanced multimodal systems (PET/MRI, SPECT/CT) remain prohibitively expensive for many smaller research institutions, limiting broader market penetration.

• Lack of Standardization in Image Analysis Despite technical advancements, variability in imaging protocols and interpretation across labs remains a bottleneck to cross-study comparability and regulatory compliance.

Recent developments indicate a vibrant innovation pipeline, but challenges in affordability and standardization remain critical to address for sustained global adoption.

 

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 3.4 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 5.53 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 8.3% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019 – 2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Modality, By Application, By End User, By Geography
By Modality	Micro-MRI, Micro-CT, Micro-PET, Micro-SPECT, Optical Imaging, Ultrasound, Multimodal Imaging
By Application	Oncology, Neurology, Cardiology, Inflammation, Drug Development, Gene Expression
By End User	Academic Institutions, Pharmaceutical Companies, CROs, Imaging Centers
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
Country Scope	U.S., UK, Germany, China, India, Japan, Brazil, etc.
Market Drivers	Rise in precision medicine, AI-integrated imaging, growth in preclinical research infrastructure
Customization Option	Available upon request